(NEXSTAR) – The days are numbered for the federal government to reopen in time to fully fund food assistance in time for November, leaving more than 40 million people uncertain if they'll have a hard time affording groceries next month.

The United States Department of Agriculture has started warning states that SNAP benefits may not be funded if the shutdown tips into a second month.

SNAP, formerly called the Food Stamp Program, helps people living near or below the poverty line afford groceries. The program is funded by federal dollars but administered by state and local agencies.

A disruption or delay could impact 42 million people, or 1 in 8 Americans, who rely on SNAP to buy food.

As the clock is ticking, states, nonprofits and some legislators are scrambling to find ways to help b

See Full Page