NORTH BALTIMORE — The ongoing government shutdown is hitting Maryland’s veterans especially hard, forcing some who once served their country to now seek help keeping food on the table and the lights on.

WATCH: Marine veteran leads effort to keep fellow veterans fed and housed amid shutdown Marine veteran leads effort to keep fellow veterans fed and housed amid shutdown

At GEDCO, the Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation in North Baltimore, staff say the number of veterans seeking assistance has grown in recent weeks.

Earl Thomas, a Marine Corps veteran and GEDCO case manager, says the need is rising as furloughed workers and veterans struggle with bills and food insecurity.

“We’ve seen an uptick — more people coming for the food pantry and utility help,” Thomas said.

“It’s sad to

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