Queer-Friendly Businesses and Community Groups Fill the Gap as SNAP Benefits Freeze Hits Arizona

As the federal government pauses November SNAP benefits amid a funding lapse, queer-owned businesses and community organizations across Arizona are stepping in to feed neighbors in need. Here are some queer-aligned and allied businesses stepping up to help out:

Know about more community groups offering support across the state? Email joseph@lookoutnews.org so we can update this list.

King Pigeon Thrift & Vintage (4739 N Central Ave, Phoenix; open 10 a.m.–6 p.m. daily; @kingpigeonthriftandvintage)
Through Nov. 1, King Pigeon is accepting nonperishable donationsoffering 10% off or a $10 gift card for donors. On Nov. 1 at 9 a.m., anyone affected by the SNAP freeze can pick up sandwich kits and groceries. Leftover items will go to community fridges and food banks.

Lovebite Dumplings (116 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, Phoenix; open 11 a.m.–4 p.m. daily; @lovebitedumplings)
From Nov. 1–8, free meals will be provided to anyone with an EBT or SNAP card. The small business encourages “pay it forward” donations to help cover costs.

Farm Express Mobile Markets (farmexpressmobilemarkets.org)
On their Instagram page, Farm Express mobile markets, which is run by Activate Food Arizona, said that all donations to Activate Food Arizona would be given directly to families to buy their own groceries during the SNAP shutdown, giving them “more choice, more dignity and more care.”

Boycott Bar (4308 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix; open 4 p.m.–2 a.m.; 602-555-0490; @boycott_bar)
The lesbain bar is hosting a food drive Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 6–9 p.m., Boycott Bar has pledged $1,000 in relief funds and is accepting community donations to support local families.

Empower AZ + LUCHA ACE
Their "Neighbor to Neighbor: Food for Every AZ Family" event on Saturday, Nov. 1, 9–11 a.m. offers community food distribution for families affected by the SNAP freeze. The event address is private, but interested participants can sign up here for details.

The Coronado PHX (2245 N 12th St, Phoenix; open 1–5 p.m. daily; @thecoronadophx)
Starting Nov. 1, The Coronado said on their Instagram page that they are offering meals to anyone with a SNAP or EBT card. Through a “Pay It Forward” program, patrons can donate $10 to provide a burrito and chips + salsa for someone in need. Meals are available from 1–5 p.m. daily Nov. 1–8, and the business will reassess the program based on demand. Donations can be made in-person or through their website.