GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - Food support programs across North Central Florida are preparing for increased demand as the federal government shutdown threatens to eliminate food stamp benefits starting Saturday.

Supplies on food bank shelves are decreasing while the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP, faces potential suspension, meaning more people could visit food pantries for help.

“It makes us overwhelmed knowing that we may not be able to provide for everyone coming through our doors,” said Denise Fanning, Catholic Charities director.

Twenty-five states filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, hoping to keep the food stamp program going after Saturday. Workers at North Central Florida food banks and charitable organizations say they are bracing for m

See Full Page