GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, AZ (AZFamily) — Thousands of National Park employees across the country are still furloughed as the government shutdown stretches into its second month.

Up at the Grand Canyon, many of those employees are still living at the park or in the surrounding areas, with no active income.

About 5 million people visit the Grand Canyon every year. Only about 3,000 people live at the South Rim full-time to help keep it running.

“We are our little village out here, taking care of each other,” Heather Lapre said. She’s lived at the park for 16 years and sees many residents weekly because she runs the food pantry.

“As a stay-at-home mother, this was my first job after decades of not working, well-paid working,” Lapre said. “It’s a thrill. It’s perfect for me.

She’s volu

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