Amid the uncertainty about whether funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will continue during the government shutdown, the Charleston-area community has stepped in to help those in need.

Across the Lowcountry, neighborhood groups, churches and businesses are donating shelf-stable foods and funds to local pantries. Many local restaurants are offering free meals for kids and adults in need, according to social media posts from various establishments .

“As far as the restaurants, the businesses and the residents, they've definitely stepped up,” said Teresa Tidestrom, the executive director of West Ashley Connects.

The nonprofit is collecting non-perishable food to distribute to more than two dozen Blessing Box locations in West Ashley. These boxes, typically loca

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