A simple Facebook post from a Wisconsin mother has grown into an effort to help families at risk of losing their food assistance benefits due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Rachel Hartberg posted in a private moms group asking if anyone needed food help with SNAP benefits potentially ending. Within hours, dozens of mothers across Waukesha County responded — not asking for help, but offering to donate.

"I thought maybe a few families would reach out," Hartberg said.

Then she went to bed, and the next morning found messages from other mothers wanting to contribute to the cause.

"Woke up and was like, 'Oh, people actually want to help,'" Hartberg said.

Scripps News Group Rachel Hartberg and her daughter stand with donated items.

The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Pro

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