Community steps up as SNAP benefits halted across Mississippi

With food stamp payments suspended during the government shutdown, Jackson residents and local volunteers organize emergency food giveaways

With food stamp payments suspended during the government shutdown, Jackson residents and local volunteers organize emergency food giveaways JACKSON, Miss. —

Video above: Judges order funding of SNAP benefits, but delays are still expected during shutdown

Early Saturday, people lined up outside a closed South Jackson grocery store for a community food giveaway — part of a growing effort to fill the gap while food stamp payments are halted.

“To get something to help me out through the month,” said Sadie Palmer of Jackson.

Others, like Sherwyn Hyder, said, “People are just in dire need right now. As God’s people, it’s our job to help one another.