With many families feeling the strain of reduced SNAP benefits following the recent federal government shutdown, a group of Vincennes University students is stepping forward to help.

Students enrolled in VU’s Social Welfare and Policy course have launched a community support effort aimed at boosting local food pantry resources. As part of the project, the students will be contacting area businesses to request monetary donations. All funds collected will go directly to the food pantries at St. Vincent de Paul and Helping His Hands.

Organizers say the goal is to ensure families affected by SNAP delays and interruptions have continued access to meals and basic necessities.

Community members or business owners interested in joining the effort can contact Professor Jennifer Hensley at jhensley@vinu.edu for more information.