NORFOLK, Va. — Hundreds of cars wrapped around the parking lot at Military Circle Mall as families waited for food distribution designed to help at least 500 families, during the ongoing government shutdown.

An hour after the distribution began, the gates had to close due to the need exceeding the amount of food available.

Cars began lining up around 4 a.m. Friday morning in the parking lot, with families seeking relief as the shutdown continues with no resolution in sight.

The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore organized this emergency pop-up distribution to address immediate needs.

"This is not normal for us. We really wanted to meet an immediate need for people who are struggling or concerned about their future paychecks coming in," said Mallory Reckling, Direct

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