JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The federal government shutdown that started on October 1 is having widespread effects on millions of Americans, particularly impacting food assistance programs. On Friday, the Georgia Department of Human Services announced that starting November 1, Georgians would no longer have access to SNAP benefits.

In Jacksonville, the Max Block Food Pantry, managed by The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS), has witnessed a noticeable surge in demand since the shutdown’s onset. Staff have observed that the queues of people seeking help continue to grow longer every week.

“Our community is in urgent need of support right now,” stated Marilyn Darius, who manages financial assistance and the food pantry. “We’re experiencing numbers typical of the holiday season, yet it’s not even the holidays yet.”

SNAP benefits, commonly referred to as food stamps, provide monthly aid to more than 160,000 individuals in Duval County, helping them secure meals. However, Darius notes that even in typical times, these benefits often fall short of meeting all needs.

“It doesn’t last for the whole month for a family of four,” she said. “They still have to come to local pantries for additional items because the cost of rent, food — everything — has gone up so much.”

According to Feeding Northeast Florida, more than 272,000 people in the Jacksonville area experience food insecurity — including one in five children. Across the state, 2.9 million Floridians face hunger, and more than 14% of households rely on SNAP benefits.

The Max Block Food Pantry served nearly 32,000 individuals last year, but Darius says this October is setting them on a path to outpace that number. “We’ve seen 327 households just this month — that’s about 1,400 people — and it’s only the beginning,” she said.

For Darius, the mission is personal.

“I know what it’s like — I grew up in a household like that,” she said. “This is my way of giving back and being able to relate to our clients.”

“Our military families were recently affected by SNAP cuts and the shutdown,” Darius said. “They’re so grateful that we’re here and able to help.”

Volunteers like Cecilia and David Cristol say the need is the worst they’ve seen in years.

“This is the worst time we’ve seen in I don’t know how long,” Cristol said. “It’s only getting worse — food is important, and we just want to help the community.”

The pantry distributes food twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1 and 3 p.m.; Darius emphasizes they’ll help anyone of any religion, race, age or zip code.

“We ask that you bring a photo ID — but we won’t turn anyone away. We’ll give you as much food as we can.”

With November SNAP benefits in limbo, food pantries across Florida are bracing for a new wave of families in need. As the shutdown drags on, staff say donations — both food and financial — are more critical than ever to keep shelves stocked and families fed.

Those wishing to donate food, funds, or volunteer time can visit JFCSjax.org or drop off nonperishable items at 6261 Dupont Station Court East. The pantry accepts canned meats, peanut butter, fruits, vegetables, frozen items, and even essentials like diapers and toiletries.

“Our community needs us,” Darius said, “and we’re not going anywhere.”