PORTLAND, Ore. — The U.S. is just days out from SNAP benefits being cut off for more than 40 million Americans, with more than two dozen states suing to force the federal government to release emergency funds. Now, local businesses are already helping out to fill the looming void.

It didn’t take long for the word to get out that local businesses are making sure those in need won’t be going without.

“We didn’t even know Heretic Coffee until I heard about it on Facebook, and I thought, 'I’m going to help these people,'” said Portland resident Patty Smith.

Josh White, the owner of Heretic Coffee in Southeast Portland felt compelled to do something after a young child walked into his coffee shop just a couple of days ago.

“Earlier this week, this 10- or 11-year-old kid came in b

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