Paradise Café in Holmes Beach Offers Free Meals to Families Affected by Federal Shutdown

HOLMES BEACH – As the federal government shutdown continues to disrupt programs nationwide, White House officials have announced that this month’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will be partially funded through an emergency reserve. However, with uncertainty over when full benefits will resume, some local businesses are stepping forward to help fill the gap.

Among them is Paradise Café in Holmes Beach, where co-owner Jackie Estes is offering free meals to families whose SNAP benefits have been impacted. Families can receive a complimentary meal by showing their SNAP card and identification.

Estes, who has operated the café for more than 30 years, said she wanted to support her community during a challenging time. Since announcing the offer on social media last week, several families have already visited the café to enjoy a meal together.

She plans to continue the initiative until SNAP benefits are fully reinstated, emphasizing the importance of small, local efforts to help those in need.

Paradise Café’s gesture reflects a growing number of community-based responses across the country as the federal shutdown continues to affect food assistance and other vital services.