A local Tampa Bay nonprofit that lost access to SNAP benefits during the recent government shutdown is bouncing back with their annual farm and music festival.

Back in October, Tampa Bay 28 told you about how the shutdown impacted Sweetwater Organic Community Farm.

Saturday, the farm hosted their third annual Tampa Bay Farm and Music Fest, celebrating both the end of the shutdown and the farm's continued resilience in serving the community.

The 43-day government shutdown significantly impacted the farm's operations, as about 20% of their revenue comes from SNAP benefits. Volunteer Director Chris Kenrick said the shutdown created a ripple effect throughout the community.

"It doesn't just hurt one person, it's a whole trickle effect and it kind of hurts everybody," Kenrick said.

Many fa

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