COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – A federal government shutdown has sparked uncertainty across South Carolina, with thousands of people already feeling its effects.

From disrupted services to financial instability, the impacts are widespread.

South Carolina is home to an estimated 25,000 federal employees, many of whom now face furloughs or are working without pay. The ripple effects go far beyond government offices.

“When you’re looking at what the impact is at the local level and for some individuals that are reliant on, on specific benefits or families, this can have a significant toll immediately,” said Economic Researcher at the University of South Carolina Joey Von Nesson.

Programs such as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could be at risk. With funding uncertain beyond the end of the month, families who rely on these services face the real possibility of going without essential support.

In response, local nonprofits are on high alert. Harvest Hope, one of the state’s largest hunger relief organizations, is worried but said their number one priority is to feed South Carolinians.

“Those are direct benefits that people need to buy food with, so we are continually watching that supply chain because that’s going to increase our need as well,” said Erin Rowe, CEO of Harvest Hope. “We really try to focus on resources, making sure we have available resources for those who need us.”

Rowe said this is beyond the idea of politics.

“It is a moment for us to come together. We are here. We’ve been here for 44 years. That is why Harvest Hope is here to make sure our neighbors have food during any kind of crisis, whether it’s a political crisis or hurricane,” Rowe said.

Von Nessen and Rowe said the unknown is scary for many people.

“Do your research, make sure you’re aware of how any changes or how the government shutdown could potentially change – how you interact with the federal government. That way, you can plan accordingly,” he said.

“Across the board there’s an air of anxiety right now because nobody knows what’s about to happen. We’re trusting in our political leaders to come together and make the best decisions for our country and our state, and that’s what we need to trust in,” Rowe added.