ST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - It’s been 22 days since the federal government shutdown began, and the ripple effects are now hitting close to home, especially for families and farmers who rely on SNAP benefits.

In north St. Louis, New Roots Urban Farm sits in the middle of the community. It’s a small operation with a big mission.

“We are a tiny little micro farm doing what we can to feed the neighborhood,” said Mina Aria, co-director of New Roots.

Each year, the farm provides fresh produce to about 300 families in the area, many of who rely on food assistance programs.

But as the shutdown drags on, Aria said the uncertainty surrounding federal aid like SNAP could mean even more families turning to the farm for help.

“It’s scary, it doesn’t have to be this way. The vulnerable folks i

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