On 15 November 2025, the longest federal government shutdown in United States history came to an end.[1] The shutdown paused the distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to millions of Americans experiencing food insecurity. In response, nonprofits throughout the country, including Northeastern Florida, stepped in to assist families in need.[2] Less than two weeks later, President Trump announced a halt in processing Afghan refugee asylum cases.[3] This announcement introduced additional uncertainty for thousands of people fleeing violence and organizations that support them, who learned they would lose federal funding after an executive order signed in January.[4] For many, the recent government shutdown and its aftermath illuminated the struggle of families who rely on SNAP and other forms of assistance[5] while emphasizing the importance of charitable organizations in the absence of functional government support systems.
Kim’s Open Door is a nonprofit in Jacksonville that has specifically focused on providing nutritional and educational support for youth from underserved communities, including immigrant and refugee youth. Kim’s Open Door was founded in 2013 by Kim Bogart, who continues to be an active force in the organization.[6] Programs include after-school education and sports, community block parties, food delivery, and international partnerships.
In October 2025, members of the BBUUC Social Action Committee and other volunteers joined Kim’s Open Door for one of their regular “Super Saturday” events for students who are learning English, including refugee and immigrant teens. The event includes classes in science and English, as well as art or outdoor play activities. At the October event, volunteers served pizza, fruit, and vegetables to about 40 students from Afghanistan and did their best to make them feel welcome and safe in our community. As one committee member observed, both staff and students appeared to genuinely enjoy the lunch, and multiple volunteers expressed interest in assisting with a similar event in the future.[7]
To learn more about Kim’s Open Door, visit https://www.kimsopendoor.com/. To get involved with the next Social Action Committee project, contact Kristina at social_action@bbuuc.org.
[1] What you need to know now that the government shutdown has ended : NPR
[2] City of Jacksonville launches ‘Duval Care Coalition’ to help with food assistance amid federal shutdown | firstcoastnews.com
[3] Afghans say last path to safety shuts as US halts visas after DC shooting | Reuters
[4] Trump refugee program freeze leads to Jacksonville layoffs, lawsuit
[5] SNAP Recipients Plan Thanksgiving, Down to Their Last Cent – The New York Times
[6] Kim’s Open Door | Non-profit | Jacksonville, FL, USA
[7] Helen Meatte, Social Action Committee member, personal communication.