The longest government shutdown in U.S. history entered its 39th day on Saturday, leaving millions of families across the country hungry, without crucial paychecks and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits .

With government assistance out of the picture, a woman in Sunland has taken the "neighbors helping neighbors" expression to heart. Mary Soracco has long operated a "Little Free Library" in her neighborhood , which is a box where visitors are free to leave a book and take a book.

Until the shutdown is over and SNAP benefits return, she's replacing the literature with free meals for families.

"The books will be back when SNAP benefits are restored," a note posted to the front of the box says. "Please take what U need."

Read More: Here's a list of food assistan

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