MAHONING & SHENANGO VALLEYS - As food pantries prepare for the holidays, there is another potential spike looming.
SNAP benefits in Pennsylvania are expected to be put to a halt next month amid the government shutdown. It's a reality that could leave families across the Mahoning Valley at risk just before the holidays.
Prince of Peace in Mercer County is one of the agencies expected to feel the impact. The nonprofit serves many people who rely on SNAP benefits.
“We offer supplemental food assistance, so what they're getting from us is meant to help bridge that gap where their benefits may fall short before they renew the following month,” said Sarah Worthington, Prince of Peace chief executive officer.
Worthington is not only expecting people to need more food, but also a bigger crowd