While the federal government shutdown drags on, the Sheboygan County Food Bank is seeing an influx of visits as FoodShare benefits are set to be delayed next month.
With this lapse in federal funding causing a delay, many in Sheboygan County are facing major uncertainty about whether they will be able to feed themselves and their families.
The Food Bank says that this delay could affect more than 12,000 Sheboygan County residents, with nearly half of them being children.
They are also seeing the effects the shutdown is having, with new family visits at the Sheboygan Cares Food Pantry up 24% in the month of October.
Those who do use EBT benefits are recommended to stock up on nonperishable food items with the remaining October benefits, as the shutdown appears to have no end in sight.
Regarding the current state of uncertainty and food scarcity in the county, the Food Bank has said, “The Sheboygan County Food Bank remains strong and ready to continue providing nutritious, emergency food through our programs and entire network of over 30 partner organizations.”
However, with heightened traffic, they are asking those in a position to give to help those in need in the community. Currently, the most needed items for donations include cereal, canned tuna, pasta, and pasta sauce.
More information on how to help or resources for those currently in need can be found by visiting the Sheboygan County Food Bank Facebook page.
