WASHINGTON — As the government shutdown continues, many military families across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia are facing serious food insecurity, and a local nonprofit is stepping up to help.

The United Soldiers and Sailors of America (USASOA), a Maryland-based volunteer organization, says they've had a surge in calls from active-duty service members and their families, many of whom are going without pay and struggling to afford basic necessities.

"We've gotten phone call after phone call over the past two or three days," said John Yori, president of USASOA. "Families, even single service members, are taking second jobs just so they can go grocery shopping. This is about food, but it's also about dignity."

USASOA has been operating its Food for Troops distribution program since

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