Even though the federal government has reopened, many families are still struggling to recover from the disruption in SNAP benefits caused by the recent shutdown. The Chattanooga Area Food Bank says it is working around the clock to help neighbors get back on their feet—and leaders are urging anyone who can to give this holiday season.

When SNAP benefits were paused during the shutdown, the food bank activated its crisis response plan, increasing food distribution and volunteer staffing by 40% during the first part of November.

“We were grateful that the government reopened and we got SNAP benefits restored,” President and CEO Melissa Blevins said. “So now we’re in recovery. We’re restocking our shelves. We’re working to replenish the food pantries in our communities.”

November became t

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