(KRON) -- The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors voted in favor of distributing $21 million through debit cards to 107,000 families who rely on CalFresh benefits, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Due to the federal government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is not sending money to states for November CalFresh (SNAP/EBT) benefits. Counties, including Contra Costa, cannot add money to EBT cards until the weeks-long government shutdown ends and federal funding is restored.

SNAP benefits have been interrupted for millions of Americans who depend on federal food aid.

Supervisor John Gioia said debit cards are the best way to help families in Contra Costa County buy groceries with dignity.

"While supporting food banks is important, our first goal

See Full Page