2M in Illinois set to lose SNAP benefits this week amid federal government shutdown
CHICAGO (WLS) -- With no end in sight of the government shutdown, there is a looming crisis for people who rely on federal aid to feed their families.
That's because The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is set to run out of money.
ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch
Two million people in Illinois rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
As the federal government shutdown drags on, there is concern that families will not receive benefits.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture posted a notice on its website that federal food aid will not go out November 1, saying the "well has run dry".
SEE ALSO: Nearly 2 million Illinoisans set to lose SNAP benefits amid congressional stalemate
The Trump administration has rejected the idea of using $5 billion of contingency funds to keep the program going through November amid the shutdown.
Several Illinois lawmakers gathered at Living Fresh Market in Forest Park over the weekend. They said they're standing united to support the independent store and shoppers who may soon lose their SNAP benefits.
"We're going to stand in the gap," Democratic Illinois House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch said. "We're here to help put food on their tables."
RELATED | Trump administration won't tap contingency fund to keep food aid flowing, memo says
Living Fresh Market launched a partnership with Forest Park Food Pantry.
The market will supply the pantry with fresh produce every Monday starting November 3.
Many Chicago area food pantries are already feeling the pressure to help support families in need.
