Advocating for the Vulnerable

Sister Beth LeValley at the press conference on proposed cuts to SNAP benefits (Courtesy of Foodlink)

On Tuesday, May 27, Sister Beth LeValley joined other local faith leaders as well as Foodlink President and CEO Julia Tedesco to call attention the potential local impact of proposed federal cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The press conference, organized by U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer, was held at the Third Presbyterian Church in Rochester, a member food pantry of Foodlink.

In May, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill combining tax cuts with major reductions to federal programs such as SNAP and Medicaid. Supporters cite the need for government deficit reduction, while others warn of serious harm to vulnerable communities. The bill is now before the Senate.

Speaking at the press conference, Sister Beth stated: “We Sisters of Saint Joseph strive toward profound love of God and love of neighbor without distinction through works of charity tempered by gentleness, peace, and joy. Today, many of our vulnerable neighbors are threatened. We stand with them in light of the injustices embodied in this budget. All of us must move quickly and expeditiously to support actions in the U.S. Senate that will restore the SNAP benefits.”

Tedesco spoke about the benefits of SNAP, noting that over 155,000 residents in Foodlink’s 10-county service area rely on SNAP and that food security is on the rise.

As part of her ongoing commitment to addressing these urgent needs, Sister Beth is also a member of Rochester’s Homeless Outreach Team (HOT). The group and the SSJs are sponsoring a third annual Ice Cream Social on Thursday, July 31 at St. Joseph’s Park. The event will offer sweet treats from JoJo’s Cool Bus, sandwiches prepared by the Sisters, clothing, hygiene kits, and service information—all aimed at supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. If you are interested in donating clothing, please contact Sister Beth at srbeth@ssjrochester.org or 585-721-4918.