ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — If the federal government shutdown continues into next month, SNAP benefits could be cut, leaving local food pantries worried about increased demand.

Local food pantries, such as Rock River Valley Pantry and St. Elizabeth's Catholic Community Center, are preparing for the possibility of SNAP benefits being withheld, which could lead to a surge in visitors seeking assistance.

Reggie Tillmon, board president of Rock River Valley Pantry, expressed concern over the potential increase in demand, stating, "A lot of the clients that we serve do get those Snap benefits. So going forward, if, if those go away, as it looks like November 1st, we should see those numbers continue to increase."

Tracy Dixon, program director for St. Elizabeth's, emphasized the importance of co

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