Due to the ongoing government shutdown, the Washington Department of Social and Human Services (DSHS) has alerted social service organizations such as Hopelink that they will be unable to administer SNAP food benefits starting Nov. 1 without federal funding. This may affect nearly 1 million Washingtonians and 41.7 million people nationwide who depend on SNAP. Hopelink anticipates increased visits to its food markets as a result. The organization is preparing to offer additional food to all shoppers and encourages community support through monetary contributions, food donations, and volunteering.