BELTON, Mo. -- Heart and Hand Ministries in Belton is experiencing a surge in demand for food assistance as the government shutdown continues to impact SNAP benefits.

The non-profit organization has reported a significant increase in the number of families seeking help to secure consistent meals, attributing the rise to the ongoing federal shutdown.

"The need this year has increased greatly," said Sam Newby, a representative of the non-profit.

In 2024, Heart and Hand Ministries served over 13,000 lunches and 400 Thanksgiving meals, and distributed more than 8,000 pieces of clothing to those in need.

Tuesday, the food pantry will be open from 3 to 6 p.m., and volunteers will serve a free hot lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The offices will open at 10 a.m. to assist families with oth

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