On Nov. 1, it was the first day of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits freeze due to the government shutdown. However, organizations such as the Tulsa Farmers Market and Magic City Books stepped up to help those in need.

Dawn Culp is one of nearly 700,000 Oklahomans who use the SNAP program.

"I don't know how I'm supposed to support my kids," said Culp.

She came to the farmers' market to show her SNAP card and receive $40 worth of these community tokens to shop for meat, produce, or baked goods.

"It's really hard I wish they would end up having to see what we go through," said Culp.

The impasse hit by negotiating lawmakers has 40 million SNAP users across the country in the same boat as Culp.

She said the 40 dollars is helpful, but only a temporary solution.

"Open

See Full Page