KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Around 1.4 million people in Michigan use SNAP benefits. Given uncertainty surrounding these benefits going into the month of November, advocates say it's essential that the programs are in place to fill the gap.

“The food need is going to be greater than pantries are accustomed to, and that they have volunteers and staff to be able to operate the larger volume of people that they may see," says Kent Co. Essential Needs Task Force director Wende Randall. "What we're really focusing on right now is ensuring that pantries are well stocked.”

The Kent County Essential Needs Task Force says food pantries and nonprofits in the area are working together to ensure families are fed as SNAP benefits are set to pause for millions.

In the meantime, West Michigan small businesse

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