SUSSEX — Sussex Outreach Services is busier than ever as the federal SNAP pause during the government shutdown pushes more families to local food pantries.

For people like Willy Rodriguez — who isn’t on SNAP but has heard neighbors worry about when benefits will return — the pantry has become a place of both support and understanding.

“I’ve heard people out there saying they’re worried about getting SNAP for weeks,” Rodriguez said. “I grew up poor. We were on welfare — I know that world a little bit.”

Now, he comes to Sussex Outreach for extra help when his budget runs tight.

“Close to the end of the month, eating a lot of mac and cheese and hot dogs,” he said. “Here I get all seven food groups.”

Executive Director Jennifer Waltz said the pantry has seen a record surge in visits since

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