JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — With SNAP benefits on hold starting Nov. 1 because of the federal government shutdown, restaurants along the First Coast are stepping up to help families in need. Some local eateries are offering free meals to children who rely on food stamps.

Maschall’s Kitchen, a family-run Afghan restaurant on Jacksonville’s Southside, is among those pitching in. Owner Syed Hashimi opened the restaurant six months ago in honor of his father.

“My dad passed away 2.5 years ago, and I’m starting this restaurant as a tribute to him,” Hashimi said. “We treat everybody like the guests are at home.”

Like many local businesses, Hashimi says the economic strain of the shutdown has affected his orders.

“I usually get a lot of orders, but I see a decrease,” he said.

Despite the challenges

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