HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - SNAP benefits will be withheld this Saturday unless Congress agrees to reopen the government, affecting millions of Americans reliant on food assistance.

In response to the impending halt of SNAP benefits, the city of Holyoke is taking proactive measures to support its residents. With nearly half of Holyoke's population depending on these benefits, local officials are emphasizing existing and new programs to mitigate the impact.

"It's clear that this federal government is abandoning us. What this means is social needs are going to be pushed down to the local level, our level," said Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia.

Holyoke's public schools, under Superintendent Anthony Soto, are currently providing around 3,500 breakfast and lunch meals daily and have implemented a ba

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