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Parkland, FL - A food distribution event in South Florida is providing a safety net for residents while the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) faces a potential funding freeze amid the ongoing government shutdown.
In Pembroke Park, local officials organized a food distribution event to help bridge the gap for families struggling without pay or food benefits.
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Guniette Brinson, a federal employee affected by the shutdown, said she has not received a paycheck in over 30 days.
Waiting in line for food assistance, she expressed frustration over working without pay and facing the possibility of choosing between food and household bills.
Town officials said the event, supplied by a farm share organization, was prepared to serve between 200 and 300 vehicles.
Local leaders noted that many people seeking help had never done so before.
With the holidays approaching and millions of Americans dependent on federal food aid, the need for community programs has increased sharply.
Nationwide, approximately 42 million people rely on SNAP to buy groceries, and any lapse in funding could leave many families without essential support.
A federal court has ordered the government to continue funding SNAP during the shutdown, though delays and administrative uncertainty have left families anxious.
Pembroke Park officials said more food distributions are being planned to meet rising demand and ensure no resident goes without basic necessities during the funding freeze.