The Community Food Pantry in Marshall is encouraging area residents to donate to help the growing number of families facing challenges during the federal government shutdown.

Due to the shutdown, many Missouri residents could be without benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or other programs that help families put food on the table. Area food pantries are already seeing an increase in families needing assistance. Community Food Pantry Director Cindy Tebbe says this the pantry’s limited resources have struggled to keep up with the growing number of families affected by the loss of government benefits.

 

Prior to the government shutdown, the pantry served about 450 families per month. The pantry has seen an increase of 37 new families needing support so far in October. Tebbe encourages community members to donate what they can to help others in need.

 

Community members can donate food or funds by contacting the pantry or by visiting from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to noon on Fridays. Donations can also left at a drop box at the Salt Fork YMCA. Residents may also call 660-831-0971 to arrange a time to donate.