ICE Presence Near Montgomery Co. Food Pantries Triggers Security Lockdowns; Attendance Drops Amid Raids

Montgomery County food pantries have increased security and altered operations as recent ICE raids and heightened immigration enforcement have stirred fear among immigrant communities. Volunteers and faith leaders now lock doors, check IDs, act as lookouts, and some organizations have removed public notices and shifted to private communications to protect clients. Attendance at pantries has fallen as some families avoid seeking assistance amid fears of detainment, even as nonprofits try to maintain access for people regardless of immigration status. The article profiles volunteers and leaders at Hughes United Methodist Church and Small Things Matter and highlights personal stories, including a young Marine recruit accompanying his stepmother. It also notes rising ICE arrests in Maryland and changes to SNAP eligibility that could increase need.