NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — With paychecks in jeopardy due to the government shutdown, many federal workers are facing a new kind of fear: how to put food on the table.

THRIVE Peninsula's Food Pantry said it’s stepping in to address those concerns and is making sure families don’t have to choose between paying bills and eating.

"When my cupboards run bare and my refrigerator has basically nothing in it, I rely on this. This feeds me," said Ellen Hockman.

Seven days into the government shutdown, and with fully stocked shelves, the THRIVE Peninsula Food Pantry in Newport News was packed on a Tuesday morning with families.

Angela York with THRIVE Peninsula said the shutdown has led to a noticeable increase in demand.

"This week specifically, we’ve had a number of families walk in and ask for hel

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