ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)--- The Government shutdown could potentially affect SNAP benefits for many people in the Southern Tier by the end of the month.

"We're all saddened by it; there's no need for it. We have potentially 39,000 neighbors who could lose SNAP benefits even temporarily as a impact. Many of these neighbors rely on this on a daily basis," said Mark Bordeau, Food Bank of the Southern Tier President and CEO.

According to the New York State Government, in New York State, 14% of the population benefits from SNAP.

"Our children are our future, and can you imagine children going to school not having something to eat because the SNAP benefits are and continue to provide much-needed nutrition and nutrition benefits for our children," said Nordia Hoff, Friendship SDA Church Food Pantry

See Full Page