**Bedford County Social Services Announces SNAP Info Hotline Amid Ongoing Government Shutdown**

Bedford County residents facing uncertainty about their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits during the ongoing federal government shutdown can now access a dedicated information hotline. Bedford County Department of Social Services (DSS) announced the new service to address growing concerns and provide crucial support to families relying on food assistance.

The hotline, accessible by calling [Insert Phone Number Here – Assuming it would be included in the real article], aims to answer common questions about SNAP eligibility, benefit disbursement schedules, and potential impacts of the shutdown on program funding. DSS staff will be available during regular business hours, [Insert Business Hours Here – Assuming it would be included in the real article], to provide up-to-date information and guidance.

"We understand that the government shutdown is creating anxiety for many families in Bedford County who depend on SNAP to put food on the table," stated [Insert Name and Title of DSS Representative Here – Assuming it would be included in the real article]. "This hotline is a direct response to those concerns. We want to ensure our residents have access to accurate information and the support they need during this challenging time."

The need for the hotline arose from the widespread confusion and fear surrounding the potential disruption of SNAP benefits. With the federal government at a standstill, funding for various programs, including SNAP, has become uncertain. While the USDA has assured that SNAP benefits will continue to be distributed for the immediate future, the long-term impact of the shutdown remains a major worry for both recipients and administrators.

The hotline is intended to alleviate some of that worry by offering a reliable source of information specific to Bedford County. DSS staff will be prepared to answer questions about local resources, emergency food assistance programs, and strategies for managing food budgets during periods of uncertainty.

Residents are encouraged to call the hotline with any questions or concerns they may have regarding their SNAP benefits. The Bedford County DSS hopes this initiative will provide a much-needed lifeline for families navigating the complexities of the government shutdown and its potential impact on their food security. Further updates and information will also be posted on the Bedford County DSS website at [Insert Website Address Here – Assuming it would be included in the real article].