Local organizations preparing for possible government shutdown

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- Some local agencies are preparing for the possibility of a federal government shutdown.
Due to Congress having yet to agree on a new federal budget, the Chattanooga Area Food Bank is preparing for the possibility of an increase in demand for their services.

They say during previous shutdowns, they’ve seen a spike in demand due to federal employees being furloughed.

The Food Bank says they’re ready in case a deal is not reached.

Ghyrn Wakefield, the Food Bank’s Chief Development Officer, said, “We are doing business as usual. We have set out during this year of crazy transitions and everything, to make sure that our shelves are stocked, and they are, and we’re going to continue to meet the need of our hungry neighbors.”

They say that benefits such as SNAP shouldn’t be immediately impacted, but could be if the shutdown is prolonged.

Additionally, the National Park Service tells us they have a plan in place for Chickamauga and other local parks if the shutdown occurs.