KALAMAZOO, MI — As 35,183 Kalamazoo County residents adjust to life suddenly without SNAP benefits, one local food bank wants people to know help is available. Like other states, Michigan was directed Thursday, Oct. 23, to stop issuing food benefits until further notice due to the federal government shutdown.

A Michigan nonprofit says it has seen an uptick in calls from concerned residents after state officials announced SNAP benefits would be temporarily paused amid the federal government shutdown.

The federal government shutdown is affecting Michigan, with lawmakers warning that no progression in Washington is starting to hit home.

An estimated 42 million individuals receive Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits monthly.