CLINTON, Mo. — Families and individuals living at Antioch Hills are facing a difficult holiday season due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. With the suspension of SNAP benefits for November 2025, many low-income residents in the community are at risk of going without a holiday meal.
Melissa Hillier, Property Management Coordinator at Antioch Hills, has shifted her traditional holiday celebration plans in response to the crisis. Hillier works closely with 115 low-income households in Clinton, providing support and services throughout the year. Each holiday season, she organizes a festive dinner and gift distribution to ensure residents experience joy and connection during the holidays.
This year, the shutdown has altered that mission. Without critical food assistance, Hillier noted that many residents will struggle to provide even basic meals, let alone holiday gifts for loved ones.
To address the need, she has launched a donation effort focused on acquiring gift cards in $100 increments for groceries or gas. The goal is to raise $11,500 in support for the 115 families and individuals who call Antioch Hills home. Hillier has already secured $5,000 toward that goal through early contributions and previous holiday donations.
“I am incredibly grateful to those who have already stepped forward,” Hillier shared in her announcement. “Your generosity will directly provide comfort and relief to our neighbors during an uncertain time.”
Hillier will provide receipts for tax purposes to donors who request them, and she encourages anyone interested in contributing or learning more to reach out directly. Community support, she emphasized, will ensure that struggling households do not face the season alone.
Residents and organizations wishing to assist can contact:
Melissa Hillier
Property Management Coordinator, Antioch Hills
Phone (660)885-8200
Email- antiochhills@wcmcaa.org
Email – mhillier@wcmcaa.org
