TOOELE, Utah — With the federal government shutdown threatening to disrupt food stamp (SNAP) benefits next month, one local restaurant is making sure no one in their community goes hungry.
Mumbai House, a long-standing restaurant in Tooele City, announced it will provide free meals to families affected by the potential suspension of food assistance.
The restaurant’s co-owner, Naysan Morad, said the decision came after hearing directly from loyal customers who expressed concern about how they would feed their families if benefits were delayed.
“People that we know mentioned they’re having a hard time with the government shutdown,” Morad said. “They told us, ‘Sorry, we’re not able to come that often.’ We know that times are tough right now.”
A Local Business Giving Back
For Morad and his business partners, helping the community that’s supported them for decades was an easy choice.
“Mumbai House has been in business since 1993, and Utah residents have been helping us for many years,” he explained. “We are nothing without our customers. This is something we can do to give back.”
The restaurant’s pledge aims to support families who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits — which could be interrupted if the shutdown extends into November.
Community Organizations Prepare for Impact
Local nonprofit Switchpoint, which operates food and housing assistance programs in Salt Lake and Tooele Counties, is also bracing for a potential increase in demand.
Phil Lewis, Switchpoint’s regional director, said the organization is preparing for “the unknown” as the situation unfolds.
“We prepare for the unexpected, and as the SNAP benefit issue continues to be discussed, we know that we’re going to prepare for any contingency,” Lewis said.
He praised Mumbai House’s efforts, calling it a reflection of Tooele’s strong sense of community.
“We still see that continued support from the people out in Tooele,” Lewis said. “It makes what we do in helping the underserved so much easier when we have partners like them.”
A Community That Stands Together
The government shutdown has already left thousands of Utahns uncertain about their next paycheck or food assistance benefit. But Tooele’s response shows the resilience and unity of small-town Utah.
Morad hopes the restaurant’s gesture will inspire others to look out for one another during challenging times.
“Being kind, helping others, and loving each other — that’s what it’s all about,” he said.
Lewis agrees, adding that he believes Tooele County will continue to rise to the occasion.
“In spite of the challenges that are coming, the people of Utah and Tooele County will step up for those who need help,” he said.
Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to contact local food banks or community pantries for support as the government shutdown continues.
