CHICAGO (WLS) -- Forty-two million Americans faced losing critical food assistance from the government amid the ongoing shutdown.

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A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to start making food stamp payments by Monday.

The White House argues it can't legally use federal emergency funds.

In Chicago, Manny's Deli in the South Loop will give a free family meal to customers who show their SNAP link card through this week.

SNAP recipients can also get a free lunch at Wooden Paddle restaurants in La Grange or Lemont. Just show your Illinois link card.

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