PASCO, Wash. – As families across the Tri-Cities face a pause in federal SNAP benefits during the ongoing government shutdown, one local pizza shop has stepped up to lend a hand.
Enjell Vrapi, owner of Best Pizza Ever, has personal experience with relying on SNAP benefits.
“My first thought was that I need to do something about it because it just kind of hit home for me. I needed them all last year and I used them and I was grateful,” said Vrapi.
Vrapi opened Best Pizza Ever in downtown Pasco just four months ago while living at the Union Gospel Mission. His Facebook post announcing the “SNAP Slice” — a free slice of pizza for anyone struggling — quickly gained attention.
“My intention was not to, have the community involved on it, but the community’s been so good. So they suggested I open a go fund me, which I did, and raised up to $750. So every dollar is one slice. So that’s a lot of slices that I’m going to give away in the month of November.” said Vrapi.
Local businesses have joined the effort, offering assistance if things get busy, and a nearby bread company has begun giving away small loaves under the same idea.
“Even before this, I always help the homeless people around here, like, when they came by, they’re like, I only have a dollar. Can you give me a slice? I’ll make sure, man. You know. So, just feels good getting back,” said Vrapi.
Vrapi plans to continue offering free slices until SNAP benefits are restored or until donations run out. This initiative has become a symbol of a community taking care of its own.
“I think that if we all did just a little bit like this, I hope other businesses, decide to do something similar because the power community is very strong and we can all help one another in this times of hardship,” said Vrapi.
Best Pizza Ever aims to keep the “SNAP Slice” going as long as the pause lasts, showing that kindness can prevail even in tough times.
