COLUMBUS, Ohio — As the potential loss of federal food benefits looms, local governments and organizations in central Ohio are working to make sure families don’t go hungry.

Columbus City Council on Monday approved $25,000 to support the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, which helps distribute food to pantries across the region. The Columbus Foundation also committed $500,000 to more than 20 food pantries in central Ohio.

It’s been a busy time for food pantries, many of which are seeing more people seeking help. Neighborhood Service, Inc Food Pantry (NSI) said they have seen an increase in demand this year.

“So far this year we have seen 2,442 new families,” said Martin Butler, executive director of NSI.

Butler said the organization currently serves about 80 families a day, offering everything

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