SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — The federal government shutdown is beginning to affect families at home. Local leaders are working to fill the gaps as thousands face uncertainty about federal benefits.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said the impacts are real, especially for families relying on SNAP benefits.

“Impacts on the ground here are real," Johnson said. "This has become really real to Savannahians."

According to the mayor, an estimated 45,000 households in Chatham County depend on SNAP.

“We’re partnering with the United Way of the Coastal Empire and America’s Second Harvest to help fill the gap for local SNAP households,” Johnson said.

The city’s $50,000 grant will help Second Harvest host a food distribution event Friday, giving away 1,000 pre-packaged food boxes.

Mary Jane Crouch, execut

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