DALLAS () The ongoing government shutdown has left the distribution schedule for SNAP benefits in limbo, creating uncertainty for the 42 million Americans who rely on this critical food assistance program.

Local food banks and community groups nationwide are stepping in to fill the void left by the stalled Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

In Dallas, over the weekend, hundreds of people sought emergency food supplies at locations such as The Stewpot and Catholic Charities of Dallas.