DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Come Nov. 1, SNAP benefits are expected to expire for 1.9 million Illinoisans.
SNAP is a federally funded food assistance program that about 40 million Americans use.
United Way of Central Illinois announced Thursday it would donate $20,000 to 10 different food banks across the area to help with an anticipated spike in need.
"When you talk to those food pantries, they are saying they have to double the days they are open," Karen Gedrose, United Way's director of community initiatives, told WAND News. "I know $20,000 is a small drop in the bucket, but United Way wants to get behind and support our local resources."
Northeast Community Fund in Decatur, one of Macon County's largest food banks, is ready for the extra foot traffic, too.
"We anticipated these changes and have already expanded our partnerships with local vendors, retailers, and community organizations to help us strengthen our food system at Northeast Community Fund," said NCF Executive Director Angel Lawrence.
Market hours and who can shop for fresh groceries remain unchanged.
"We remain steadfast," Lawrence said. "We want to ensure families and individuals that they will continue to have access through Northeast Community Fund to healthy foods and vital resources at our location."
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