ORLANDO, Fla. – Thirty days into the ongoing government shutdown, the looming expiration of SNAP benefits is causing growing concern across Central Florida. Millions of Americans are bracing for the potential loss of critical food assistance, and local food pantries are feeling the strain.

At Matthew’s Hope in Orange County, shelves are growing bare as demand continues to rise. Volunteer David Stamper, who relies on SNAP to help feed himself, says the uncertainty has been weighing heavily on him.

“Mentally, just having that security — knowing there’s food on the table, a meal for the next day — that’s the worry,” Stamper said.

If SNAP benefits stall, Stamper fears he’ll be forced to depend entirely on the pantry for meals.

“Having EBT gave me that help so I didn’t have to fully rely o

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