SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- As the federal government shutdown continues, local organizations are stepping up to help military families and federal employees struggling to make ends meet.

Every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m., volunteers at the Jewish Family Service of San Diego distribute free food to families in need through a drive-thru pickup program. Since the start of the shutdown, organizers say demand has surged.

“It’s really important to help out our local community,” said volunteer Katie Wu, who spent her afternoon bagging and packing groceries. “If I have a couple hours in my day, why not, right?”

Each family receives about 40 pounds of food — including fresh fruits, vegetables and canned goods — all donated by partners such as the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank and Feeding Sa

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