United Way of Buffalo & Erie County Brings Food Relief to Individuals and Families in Erie County
Donations are needed to support relief efforts for urgent community crises
BUFFALO, NY, November 5, 2025 – United Way of Buffalo & Erie County (UWBEC) today announced that it will be distributing Tops Friendly Markets gift cards to residents of Erie County impacted by the suspension of SNAP benefits that went into effect on November 1. This effort is possible through the United Way Community Resilience Fund, established to address urgent community needs following the December 2022 Blizzard. Anyone who would like to donate to the Community Resilience Fund so we can serve the community in times of crisis can visit this link: uwbec.org/crf
UWBEC will distribute the Tops gift cards ($50 for individuals and $150 for families) through five nonprofit organizations that serve each quadrant of Buffalo and rural areas to the south of the city. Each nonprofit will deploy the gift cards to families in their service area in immediate need of food. Gift cards will also be distributed through UWBECs Work/Life Solutions program participating employer groups for staff who are in need of immediate assistance.
“The ongoing government shutdown and suspension of SNAP benefits for thousands of families in Buffalo and Erie County is of great concern to us,” said Trina Burruss, President and CEO of UWBEC. “The Community Resilience Fund is a critical asset for our community and has already made an impact on the lives of many who experienced unexpected hardship. Your donations allow UWBEC to be hands-on when your friends, family and neighbors need immediate support and relief.”
The gift cards will be distributed every Wednesday to the five nonprofits and Work/Life Solutions employer groups based on a weekly assessment of needs and until SNAP benefits are reinstated. “Thank you to our friends at Tops for helping us activate this effort,” said Burruss.
To donate to United Way’s Community Resilience Fund, click here.
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ABOUT UNITED WAY OF BUFFALO & ERIE COUNTY:
For more than a century, United Way of Buffalo & Erie County has been hands-on in improving lives and creating opportunities for individuals and families across our community. We take a comprehensive approach to addressing Buffalo and Erie County’s most pressing challenges, focusing on health, youth opportunity, financial security, and community resilience. By actively listening, mobilizing resources, and delivering solutions, we are committed to making a real difference for those who need it most. Learn more at uwbec.org.