By Victoria Mejicanos
AFRO Staff Writer
vemejicanos@afro.com
After announcing more than $4.6 million in emergency aid for food, rent and child care during the government shutdown on Oct. 28, 2025 Baltimore officials are still working to distribute the funds to the individuals and organizations selected to receive them.
Michelle Suazo, director of The Food Project in Southwest Baltimore, says that since the announcement was made, 180 new people have requested meal deliveries in addition to the 950 families a week she noted the day of the announcement. The Food Project was allocated $150,000 in grant funding to support three months of operational and food cost.
The organization is also offering more pop up markets as a result of increased need and inquiries. According to Sauzo, there are even people outside the Southwest Baltimore area seeking assistance.
“While we are waiting we are trying to make everything work,” Sauzo said “The floodgates have opened.”
With the Food Project being a part of UEmpowerMD, they also provide free clothing, legal aid and mental health support, acting as a resource hub for the area.
“Food is the connector, said Sauzo. “Food is the start of the dialogue to get people that they need in the community.”
In terms of rental assistance, an email was sent out to the 500+ individuals who expressed interest. The email informed recipients of the requirements to qualify for support while also providing additional resource options for those that did not qualify. According to the Baltimore City Office of the Mayor, “CAP Center staff are working diligently to process applications and getting residents the support they need.”