The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is offering assistance to anyone affected by the partial-shutdown of the federal government.

More than 300 community-based partner agencies in 53 central and western Oklahoma counties have offered to help.

“We have asked our partners to extend their eligibility assistance to anyone impacted by the shutdown,” said Katie Fitzgerald, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “Too many families live paycheck to paycheck and as a result, missing just one pay day can result in that household having to choose between paying bills or buying food. The Regional Food Bank and its partners are ready to step in and provide food assistance when needed.”

As the shutdown continues, it will continue to impact federal nutrition programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Last year, SNAP provided food assistance for nearly 875,000 Oklahomans. Due to a reserve of funds from the prior fiscal year, the USDA provided the February benefits to SNAP recipients on January 20. At this point, there is no available funding for SNAP in March.

To make a monetary donation, visit rfbo.org/shutdown or call 405-600-3136. To donate food, call 405-972-1111.