Amid concerns surrounding the Federal Government shutdown and freezing of funds for many programs, food insecurity and questions about access to quality foods are needing answered. As of November 1st, SNAP benefits or ‘food stamps’ will likely not be reloaded at the beginning of the month, potentially leaving millions of Americans fending for their next meal. For those with existing balances, those dollars will remain usable until the spending limit is met.

In Christian County, a growing number of resources are available to the community for needed food items. During deer hunting season, if you secure more than you might be able to eat, the Illinois Deer Donation Program is happy to take that extra and put it to good use.

Possibly the best resource available comes from the University of Illinois Extension with their ‘Find Food IL’ community food map. Simply type in your city or zip code and this tool will present you with all available options to fight food insecurity in your area.

For more information on the ‘Find Food IL’ community food map, visit www.eat-move-save.extension.illinois.edu/#food-finder. Anyone interested in donating additional processed deer this hunting season can learn more at www.extension.illinois.edu/food/food-donations.