💙Today's SNAP Story is brought to you by Kaiser Permanente.

For most of his life, independence wasn’t something Reggie thought about. It was simply how he lived. He worked, cared for himself, cooked his own meals, and never imagined that one day something as ordinary as opening a can or chopping an onion would become one of the hardest parts of his day. Now, those small tasks have become daily reminders that his body has changed faster than his spirit. When asked how he’s doing, he rarely pauses before answering, “I’ll make it.” He says it with a smile. He says it while gripping his wheelchair. He says it as he watches his neighbors freely come and go. He says it when his hands no longer have the strength to prepare the fresh fruits and vegetables he wishes he could eat. I learned he also says it because hope has become a habit and a life line for him. Although SNAP helps Reggie purchase food each month, the reality of living with limited mobility means his choices are different than many people assume. Fresh produce often requires peeling, chopping, lifting, and standing – simple tasks that have quietly slipped beyond his ability. Instead, he carefully selects shelf stable foods that he can prepare safely on his own, stretching every SNAP dollar while doing everything possible to remain independent. Oftentimes there’s a bias against users of SNAP purchasing shelf stable foods. But through this conversation, it’s clear to me that sustainability is the main goal. Whether the nourishment is fresh or canned, the key is stability. Food security isn’t always about food being available. Sometimes it’s about whether a person has the physical ability to prepare it. If you or someone you know are having trouble applying for government benefits, Wholesome Wave Georgia's SNAP Connection hotline is here for you: 678-631-7101.