Food pantries in Central Florida are preparing for increased demand as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, faces suspension due to the government shutdown, leaving many families searching for alternative food sources.

The Sharing Center in Longwood , the largest food bank in Seminole County, is experiencing empty shelves and anticipates a 40% increase in families seeking food assistance.

The SNAP program, which provides a card loaded with a predetermined amount of money for groceries, is crucial for many families, allowing them to allocate cash for other expenses like rent and utilities.

The Sharing Center's CEO and president, Tekoa Pourie, expressed concern over the unique situation, saying, "We are helping those who have furloughed, asking for rental assistance, b

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