AREA FOOD BANKS SEEING INCREASE IN USE AHEAD OF SNAP FUNDING RUNNING OUT

SNAP Benefits are expected to run out at the start of November, and some Indiana County Food Banks are already seeing an increase of activity.

The State Department of Human Services announced earlier this week that benefits will not be paid out starting November 1^st due to the federal government shutdown that has now in its 24^th day. Salvation Army Commander Christy Ooten said that just in the past few days, they have seen a sharp increase in the number of people asking for emergency food assistance.

Others in the county have also seen sharp increases in food-related service. Indiana Area Community Action Program is also dealing with an increase in requests as well as a lack of state funding due to the budget impasse that is in its fourth month. Executive Director Brandi Flemming said they will have to rely on more donation sources to help out.

Once that donation option is set up we will pass it along to you. Chevy Chase Community Center Executive Director Jenny Rairigh said that the best way to help out is to either make financial donations or to donate non-perishable food items by purchasing an extra item or two at the store or checking their own pantries for unexpired food.