Local food pantries are seeing record demand as the government shutdown cuts paychecks and threatens SNAP benefits, according to WENY.
The Food Bank of the Southern Tier said 2024 was its busiest year ever — and 2025 is already tracking higher. Over 5,000 federal workers in the region missed pay last week alone.
With a long shutdown, food assistance programs could face major strain. Volunteers urge anyone in need to reach out now for help.
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