DARE COUNTY, N.C. — In North Carolina, SNAP benefits may be delayed because of the ongoing government shutdown.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps scores of families put food on the table.

Officials with the Dare County Department of Health and Human Services said Friday that they got a letter from the federal government warning that November benefits could face disruptions, affecting thousands of North Carolinians who depend on those benefits.

13News Now spoke to the executive director of Beach Food Pantry in Kitty Hawk, Elisabeth Silverthorne, who heard about the notice and is already preparing to help. But, she said if benefits are delayed or reduced next month, it won't just hurt those who receive them; it could reach beyond SNAP users.

Silverthorne said she

See Full Page