MACHESNEY PARK, Ill. (WTVO) — As SNAP benefits face partial withholding, local community leaders are stepping up to support food pantries in Machesney Park and Freeport with significant donations.

The Village of Machesney Park has contributed $7,000 to the Helping Hands Pantry, while Freeport Township has donated $18,000 to the Northern Illinois Food Bank. These donations come amidst a rise in demand for food assistance, as the Helping Hands Pantry has seen its clientele increase from 250 to over 300 families per month.

"With the uncertainty that's surrounding SNAP, and people are very concerned and nervous....if they were just barely getting by previously, it's still going to put them into a difficult position," said Jerry Gibbons, who has worked at Helping Hands Pantry for 22 years.

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