LANSING, Mich. — Julie Jesmer learned in July that she had two months left at her USDA-funded position at Michigan State University, where she worked with nutrition experts on a food program to help Midwest farmers.
- Former MSU employee shares the struggles of being unemployed since September when she lost a federally-funded position
- Julie Jesmer is only paying for necessities such as rent, utilities and gas
- Jesmer waits for potential employers to call back with about two-months worth of funds in her bank account
WATCH: JOB LOSS LEAVES LANSING WOMAN BETWEEN BENEFITS AND FOOD ASSISTANCE
Funds from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) allowed Michigan State University to begin its Great Lakes Midwest Regional Food Business Center, which occasionally offered cooking classes to show SNAP recipients how to maximize their benefits.
Last summer, USDA pulled its funding, forcing MSU to cut the program, leaving Jesmer and others without work.
"I made both my rent payment and my car payment today," Jesmer said. "I have roughly $1000 left in [my bank] account."
WATCH: SOUTH LANSING MINISTRIES CONTINUES TO STOCK UP THEIR PANTRY AMID PARTIAL SNAP BENEFIT ROLLOUT
Before filing for unemployment in September, Jesmer managed to save about $3,000. Her unemployment benefits of roughly $1,400 per month put her about $200 over the income limit to qualify for SNAP benefits, creating a gap in support she says.
"I'm okay. I should be okay for about two more months," Jesmer said when asked about her savings.
Jesmer attends Sycamore Creek Church, which has a food pantry and garden. Despite her struggles, Jesmer hasn't used the resources yet, thinking of families that may need assistance more than she does.
WATCH: USDA SAYS IT WILL DRAIN CONTINGENCY FUNDS TO PARTIALLY COVER NOVEMBER SNAP BENEFITS
"I think about the young single mother who's just struggling to make it day to day... They're going to need this food," Jesmer said.
When looking at a box of food from the pantry, Jesmer's assessment was simple: "It's not enough."
WATCH: LANSING NEIGHBOR SHOPS FOR DINNER AMID QUESTIONS OVER FUTURE OF SNAP BENEFITS
Without internet at home, she visits the library or unemployment office to complete job applications. Jesmer is currently waiting for an interview as her funds continue to dwindle.
"When it's just me I can do things to plan ahead," Jesmer said. "My situation may be difficult and tenuous but it's not near as difficult a situation that other people are going to be facing."
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
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