BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — SNAP benefits remain a crucial topic across the country as the government shutdown continues.

Here in Baton Rouge, St. Vincent de Paul hosted "Neighbors Helping Neighbors,” a community food drive to help local families in need.

Sunnie Johnson-Lain with St. Vincent de Paul said it's important for her organization to step up and be part of the solution to local food insecurity in the midst of SNAP uncertainty.

"We really felt it's critical, at this time, when our neighbors are having such a challenge, with SNAP cuts, the government shut down, and rising food costs in general,” Johnson-Lain said.

She said her organization serves over 300 people daily with hot meals, and they provide food to pantries in 12 nearby parishes.

"The demand has been very, ve

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