COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (WOWT) - More than 265,000 people rely on SNAP benefits in Iowa, according to August data from the USDA.

Starting Saturday, those benefits are expected to be paused, and the lack of assistance would leave local food pantries in need of extra help.

Now, the city of Council Bluffs is stepping in, setting up donation drop-off locations around the city.

“Already, people are dropping off food, hygiene items, and so, we know that the people of Council Bluffs care and will respond,” said Mayor Matt Walsh.

One of those people is Jan Hopper. She brought three bags of groceries to the police department on Friday afternoon.

“I just can’t imagine what it would be like to have kids or grandkids and not be able to feed them,” said Jan. “That just breaks my heart.”

With the foo

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