MEMPHIS, Tenn. - As the federal shutdown continues, long lines at food giveaways across the Mid-South reflect a growing fear among families now losing access to SNAP benefits. But for many without reliable transportation, even reaching those food distribution sites is challenging.

One Memphis woman, who asked not to be identified, said she lost transportation after a major mechanical issue with her car. She now has three children and a grandchild at home but no way to get to a food pantry.

“No transportation. I don’t even have transportation to work,” she said. “With the government shutdown now, we won’t have food stamps when our allotted date in November rolls around.”

Without a vehicle, rideshares are also not an option.

“I can’t catch an Uber or Lyft because I can’t afford it,” she

See Full Page