SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WNDU) - More than 40,000 people in Michiana who depend on SNAP benefits are trying to figure out how to pay for food amid the government shutdown, and the financial strain is affecting their ability to pay other bills as winter approaches.

Without federal assistance for people on SNAP, the money low-income Americans are using for food is likely eating into the money they need to pay their bills and keep the heat on.

Energy companies offer assistance

Local energy companies are offering assistance programs to help customers manage their bills during the colder months.

NIPSCO provides help through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and offers assistance programs for seniors, veterans and others in need of financial assistance.

“As the weather gets colder an

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