MINNEAPOLIS — The ongoing uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits during the federal government shutdown has motivated many Minnesota families to seek food assistance at local food shelves.

Michelle Ness is the executive director at PRISM, which operates a food shelf in Golden Valley.

“We have seen a significant increase in the number of people coming through our door,” Ness said.

Over the last few months, Ness says their food shelf has averaged around 90 families per day, with around 18 new families registering for their services. On Thursday, Ness says their food shelf served 180 families, 57 of whom were visiting for the first time.

“A lot of people are telling us that they’re worried about SNAP. I think there’s a lot of confusion. There’s a lot of sadness and people are trying to fig

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