Maine Restaurant Chain Offers Free Pizza to Kids Affected by SNAP Shutdown

As nearly 170,000 Mainers prepare to lose their SNAP benefits this Saturday because of the ongoing federal government shutdown, one Maine restaurant chain is stepping up to help feed families.

According to Sam’s Italian Foods, they've announced that beginning November 1, it will provide two free 10-inch cheese pizzas per family per week for children 12 and under who have lost their food assistance. The offer will continue until the shutdown ends.

Families simply need to show a valid ID, along with a SNAP or EBT card, and have their child present to qualify.

In a statement posted to Facebook, Sam’s said its team wanted to support Mainers who are struggling during these uncertain times. “The entire Sam’s Team is passionate about helping those within our community with what we can,” the statement read. “It is very difficult times for us all, but we hope this will help some families cope.”

Parents who choose to dine with their child can also receive a 10% discount on their own meal.

Sam’s Italian Foods has long been a familiar name across Maine, with locations in Auburn, Augusta, Brunswick, Dixfield, Freeport, Lewiston, and Lisbon Falls.

As the federal shutdown stretches on, Sam’s initiative is earning praise for showing that a small act of kindness, and a couple of pizzas, can make a big difference for Maine families in need.