As the government shutdown continues, many Americans are facing severe financial hardships. Those unable to feed themselves, their families, and even their pets are queuing at food pantries nationwide. The difficulties for federal workers, enduring a month without paychecks, are intensified by delays in the federal food assistance program, SNAP.
The ongoing shutdown has led to increased reliance on food pantries as the strain of missed income grows. Delays in SNAP benefits further deepen the crisis for those depending on federal aid.
"Americans who cannot afford to feed themselves and their families, including their pets, are lining up at food pantries across the country amid the government shutdown fight in Washington."
This collection is curated by AP photo editors, capturing the human impact of financial uncertainty during this prolonged shutdown.
These images reveal the growing hardship on everyday Americans as federal aid programs face disruption.
Author's summary: The government shutdown has deepened financial woes for Americans, leading to increased dependence on food pantries amid delayed SNAP benefits and missed federal paychecks.