CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) - Helping in a crisis is a standard day for workers at the United Way of Central West Virginia in Charleston, as their phones ring nonstop helping people get the help they need.

The 211 hotline is a service that connects people with available resources for numerous issues. It saw an increase in calls for food requests, across the state for food assistance amid Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) delays due to the government shutdown.

“It’s really hard,” said Margaret O’Neal, president of the United Way of Central West Virginia. “Its an emotional time for people, and there is nothing like hungry seniors to break your heart or single moms with a bunch of kiddos trying to figure it out to feed them.”

O’Neal said callers will hear an automated message

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