MARIN COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) -- SNAP food assistance benefits are running dry this weekend for millions of Americans due to the government shutdown. It's creating a crisis for many Bay Area families who depend on the monthly benefits. Many in the North Bay businesses are stepping up to help.
A Thanksgiving food drive outside Pini Hardware in Novato evolved into something much bigger as SNAP benefits run out for millions of recipients.
"I believe that we are the change, and if everybody can come together as a community and come together to help," said Michelle Whiteside, food drive organizer.
Celia Cuomo wants to help families, and she's donating what she can.
LIVE UPDATES: Impact of government shutdown on Bay Area, California SNAP benefits
"I find it cruel and heartless. I feel like, since I can make a little contribution, I'm happy to do that," Cuomo said.
Much of the non-perishable food donations will go to help local food banks. During our visit, Enchandra Johnson's family showed up with their donation, even though their SNAP benefits are running out.
"This is really sad, very impactful to families. I'm a single mother myself. Around the 7th I get mine. If I don't get them this month, I don't know what's going to happen on Thanksgiving," Johnson said.
At Tommy Salsa restaurant, owner Javier Sanchez doesn't want anyone to go hungry. He's letting kids eat free for the next two weeks.
Families can come over and show us their card. We just give the burritos. it doesn't matter if it's four kids or 10. I don't come from a rich family. I know what I feel like not having anything to eat," Sanchez said.
MAP: Bay Area residents set to lose CalFresh benefits Nov. 1 amid government shutdown
"If you are food insecure, I can help," said Tony Adams.
Adams posted that message on Instagram. He's the founder of Mill Valley Pasta Company. He's offering to help anyone needing food at his stores or pop-ups, no questions asked.
"We launched something called the Uncle Tony Program. People can come in, mention they're there to pick up an order for Uncle Tony. It's coded language for us, that they may be food insecure and need help. Sometimes the biggest barrier to getting help is having to ask for help," Adams said.
The San Francisco-Marin Food Bank posted on its website that due to SNAP benefits running out for thousands, all monetary donations up to $80,000 will be matched thanks to several anonymous donors.
END HUNGER IN CA: How to help those in need in your community
SOURCE :abc7news