In separate efforts, an Episcopal church parishioner and the Diocese of Venice are offering help to those in financial distress in the wake of the government shutdown and resulting suspension of SNAP benefits and federal paychecks.

Attorney and businessman Hugh Culverhouse Jr. of Sarasota, a member of the Church of the Redeemer in downtown Sarasota, has offered a $200,000 matching gift administered through the church.

The funds will provide emergency assistance to individuals and families affected by the suspension of federal pay, delayed food aid, and other economic hardships triggered by the shutdown. Support will also extend to families at Alta Vista Elementary School, where many students rely on federal programs for daily essentials. Every contribution made to the fund will be matche

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