As SNAP benefits are expected to resume, food pantries say there's still work to be done

SCOTT COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — Food pantries across Kentucky are breathing a sigh of relief as SNAP benefits are expected to resume following the end of the 43-day federal government shutdown, but local organizations say their work addressing increased hunger in communities is far from over.

The federal government reopened Wednesday evening after more than six weeks of uncertainty caused by the shutdown and conflicting court rulings over SNAP benefits. During this period, food pantries scrambled to fill gaps for families who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

"We're optimistic, now more than ever, that at least partial benefits will hit the SNAP cards soon. But we haven't seen any relief quite yet," said Michele Carlisle, executive director of the Amen House in Scott Co