What happens when the safety net fails?

In this episode, host Sabina Sulat breaks down the unfolding SNAP crisis — how the government shutdown threatens to halt food assistance for more than 41 million Americans, including furloughed federal workers.

Sabina shares her own vulnerable story of relying on SNAP when she was unemployed, explaining how food stability restored not just her health and finances but her self-worth.

She also debunks common myths about SNAP, reveals its surprising role as an economic driver, and offers practical ways listeners can take action — from volunteering locally to contacting their representatives.

This isn’t a political conversation. It’s a human one.
Because food isn’t a privilege — it’s the foundation that lets us rebuild.

00:00 – 02:30 | Introduction
Sabina introduces the SNAP crisis, the USDA’s funding pause, and why food stability matters to everyone.

02:30 – 06:30 | What SNAP Is & How It Works
Explanation of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), how it operates through state systems, and who it serves.

06:30 – 09:30 | Furloughed Workers & the Shutdown Impact
How federal employees caught in the shutdown are facing immediate hardship — and why applying for SNAP is both necessary and legitimate.

09:30 – 15:00 | Sabina’s Personal Story
A vulnerable reflection: growing up around program abuse, swearing never to take aid, and the transformative experience of receiving SNAP while unemployed.
How it changed her emotionally, physically, and professionally.

15:00 – 19:00 | Myths vs. Facts: The Economics of SNAP
✔️ Myth: SNAP drains taxpayer money
✔️ Fact: Every $1 in SNAP = $1.50 in local economic growth (USDA ERS, 2019)
✔️ Myth: It’s for people who don’t work
✔️ Fact: Most recipients do work or are between jobs

Sabina reframes SNAP as economic infrastructure, not charity.

19:00 – 25:00 | How to Help (and Why It Matters)
Practical, compassionate steps:

• Invite someone over for dinner

• Give grocery gift cards or cash

• Volunteer or donate at local food banks

• Join Sabina at Bread and Butter Kitchen in Annapolis for Furlough Fridays supporting affected workers

• Remember small acts — even an Instacart delivery can restore hope

25:00 – 29:00 | Civic Action: What We Can Do Together
Contact your members of Congress and state representatives.
Push for immediate release of SNAP funds.
Food insecurity is a human issue — not a partisan one.

29:00 – 30:00 | Closing
A reflection on community, dignity, and responsibility:

“SNAP doesn’t just feed people; it feeds our economy, our neighborhoods, and our shared humanity.”

• SNAP is not just a social program — it’s an economic engine that benefits everyone.

• When benefits pause, the ripple effects hit local stores, schools, and jobs.

• Asking for help is strength, not shame.

• Helping others can be as simple as sharing a meal or a grocery card.

• Real change happens when we move from empathy to action.

• USDA Economic Research Service: SNAP’s Economic Multiplier Effect

• Reuters: USDA Will Not Use Emergency Funds for November SNAP Benefits

• Bread and Butter Kitchen – Furlough Fridays: [Website / Instagram link if available]

• Feeding America Food Bank Finder: https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank

• Contact Congress: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

If this episode resonated with you:

• Share it with someone who’s furloughed or struggling.

• Post about it — use #AgileUnemployment and share your story of resilience.

• Take one action this week: help a neighbor, donate food, or call your representative.

Because hunger doesn’t wait for politics.
And when we feed each other, we strengthen the whole nation.