ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) - The United Way of Abilene has seen a 10% increase in calls for help in the past week. The rise comes as the November 1 deadline approaches for SNAP recipients who are expected to lose benefits this month amid the ongoing government shutdown.

United Way of Abilene's Chief Development Officer, Katie Deal, said the most recent requests are for food aid. One of the center's goals is to alleviate financial challenges where they can, and Deal shared that helping with a light bill or rent puts more money in the individual's budget for groceries. A relief that Deal shared is affecting many right now.

"We have gainfully employed federal employees who are going to work every day but are not receiving a paycheck. With that comes the increased stress of 'How am I going t

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