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Food banks already strained by inflation and federal cuts are bracing for a surge as the nearly monthlong government shutdown threatens to halt SNAP funding in November, affecting about 42 million people. Leaders from Oregon to Washington, D.C., say demand now far outstrips supply—pantries can replace just one of every nine federally supported meals. Visits have jumped 50% in Oregon and doubled around the capital. In Beltsville, Md., a giveaway for unpaid federal workers ran out after 45 minutes, echoing warnings that children, seniors and rural communities will go hungry if contingency funds remain untapped.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.