Food banks are scrambling to keep up with a continued surge in demand as Bay Area families are still recovering from lapses in federal food benefits triggered by the government shutdown.

The need could grow even greater as millions nationwide stand to lose benefits once new work requirements kick in next month. Grocery prices, meanwhile, are still rising, adding to the strain on many lower-income households.

“I’m struggling — I’ve got three boys,” said Luis Barragan, while waiting in line outside a busy food pantry in East Oakland. Barragan, 37, said he’s yet to receive his food benefits this month and has had to cut back on groceries.

Heading into Thanksgiving, hunger relief groups are rushing to fill gaps left by disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, at a time

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