STATEWIDE-- The longest government shutdown in U.S. History has come to an end, and while the immediate crisis has ended obstacles still loom. With federal funding still potentially weeks away from being distributed for services like emergency heating assistance, people across Maine could still feel the effects for weeks to come.

The return to full government function begins, but impacts of the shutdown are still unfolding.

State officials say full November SNAP benefits have been distributed to Maine recipients. However, according to Good Shepherd Food Bank , uncertainty over the last few weeks has resulted in a 30 to 50% increase in demand at food pantries statewide.

"Even before the government shutdown, Maine was seeing record high hunger levels and reduced food and money to meet

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