The Cherokee Nation has declared a state of emergency as families experience the effects of SNAP cuts during the government shutdown.

The Cherokee Nation is dipping into reserve funds and setting aside just under $7 million to help Cherokee tribal members get by.

WATCH: Cherokee Nation allocates millions to help families as SNAP funding is suspended

$4.5 million will be going towards SNAP benefits, $1.25 million will be going towards food banks, $225,000 is going towards the Cherokee Nations non-profit organizations, and $750,000 is going towards the nations WIC program.

Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr. said the government needs to get its act together to provide families with the resources they need.

My goodness, we would welcome the state government to do something besides nothing,

See Full Page