Food banks, including the one serving Madera County, are seeing the need firsthand, saying their phones have been ringing nonstop since the end of October with families asking for emergency food boxes.
Wednesday night, the government reopened, and the Madera County Social Services office confirmed that people approved for SNAP benefits are once again receiving those benefits.
It's a move bringing relief to food banks, helping fill the gap.
Executive Director Ryan McWherter says the need overall remains at an all-time high.
"We really did step up to the plate, ramped it up and did what we could do as a food bank."
"I'm a single mom. I take care of my sister and my daughter, and it's really hard," says Jessica Tinoco. "I feel like right now, nothing is enough."
Tinoco is one of 700 families who waited for hours on Thursday morning at the Madera County Fairgrounds for a voucher guaranteeing a Thanksgiving Food Box.
"Things like this, where people are helping, it's very helpful, especially for those who can't afford a hot meal," Tinoco says.
Last year, the food bank handed out 500 boxes.
McWherter is glad they could provide a couple of hundred more this year.
"That really does bring joy to my heart, but at the same time, we were in a spot where we had to turn away a couple of hundred people, and that breaks my heart," he said.
The families who will get to pick up a box over the weekend say they're filled with appreciation and warmth ahead of Thanksgiving.
"I am very grateful and very blessed that there are people willing to help," says Lizbeth Huerta.
Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria presented a $25,000 check, helping the food bank provide even more boxes during the winter months.
Those who received SNAP benefits should see money on their cards. However, if you recently enrolled for services, funding for pending applications has not been released.
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