HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – As the federal government shutdown approaches a month, thousands of civilian workers on Fort Campbell are feeling the impact of the pay lapse. On a larger scale, hundreds of local families will also lose SNAP benefits due to lack of government funding. County officials are hoping to alleviate some of the stress affiliated with the uncertainty by organizing a resource fair.

“Our offices have been working pretty hard with Fort Campbell through this shutdown,” Gilliam during the Oct. 28 fiscal court meeting. “We’ve reached out to them numerous times to try and find solutions to the problem that’s occurring with the shutdown.”

Christian County will host a resource fair at Valor Hall on Nov. 4-5 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. in collaboration with the Military Affairs Committee. Two days will also be held in Clarksville, Tennessee Nov. 7-8 at the Montgomery County Public Library.

“The men and women who serve our country, whether in uniform or as federal employees, should never have to face financial hardship due to circumstances beyond their control,” said Shannon Lane, Director of Military Affairs for the Christian County Chamber of Commerce. “Our community stands united across state lines to ensure that those who serve are supported during this difficult time.”

Impact on government workers, SNAP benefits cut, and event details

Since Sept. 30 over 4,000 local civilian households are currently facing furloughs or are continuing to work without pay. Among these jobs are medical personnel and staffing at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital, which remains open and fully staffed 24/7.

Additionally, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has joined leaders from 24 other states in a lawsuit challenging the recent federal decision to suspend the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the government shutdown. The program provides food benefits to nearly 600,000 low-income families in the state to supplement their grocery budgets.

“It’s our goal to ensure that these folks find the resources they need to be able to survive,” said Gilliam. According to a news release, the fairs will bring together local organizations, nonprofits, and community partners to offer essential supplies, financial resources, and emotional support. Organizers are seeking donations such as gift cards, care packages, and informational resources to distribute to families in need.

Organizations wanting to participate, provide assistance, or get information out there on how they are supporting those affected are highly encouraged to attend and will be provided with a complimentary table at the events to share resources, information, or distribute items directly to families.

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