LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) - Since SNAP benefits were paused Oct. 30 due to the shutdown, thousands of Nebraskans have been affected, with more turning to Catholic Social Services for food market appointments.

The nonprofit schedules about 12 appointments a day. Typically, some clients miss their slots, but since the pause, nearly all are keeping them.

“Everyone is really prioritizing their appointment time, getting here timely, getting their food and visiting with the front desk to see what else is available,” Katie Patrick, the executive director of Catholic Social Services said.

Cindy Jones is among those affected by the pause. The government shutdown has forced her to stretch meals.

“We try to make more of a stew where it would last longer,” Jones said. “I’ve just been cutting corners wh

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