Good evening, Salem.

More than 46,000 families in Marion and Polk counties rely on food benefits through SNAP to pay for groceries.

For the first time in U.S. history since that program was established, benefits won’t go out as scheduled on Saturday, Nov. 1 because of the ongoing federal government shutdown.

That will have ripple effects throughout our community. Schools, food pantries and others on the front lines are bracing for hungry families.

Our team will cover this on multiple fronts in the coming days and until the issue resolves – and we’re dropping our paywall on SNAP-related coverage so everyone can have access to information they may need to stay fed. Subscribers like you help us serve the community during challenging times, so we thank you for your ongoing support.

Here’s some of today’s news. Head to our website anytime for our latest local reporting.

www.salemreporter.com

Already doing more with less, Salem food pantries brace for food benefit delays

More than 46,000 Marion and Polk county families rely on food benefits to eat. With no SNAP payments going out Nov. 1, many are likely to turn to pantries supplied…

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www.salemreporter.com

Rudy’s Steakhouse fails to pay debts as city officials request thousands, records show

After the city of Salem locked Robert Kunke and staff out of Rudy’s Steakhouse in April, officials have spent months requesting payment from the restaurant, which owes almost $89,000.

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www.salemreporter.com

UPDATE: Salem city councilors accept private funds to pay for two police officers  

Salem city councilors will consider accepting $180,000 in private funds on Monday to pay for two new police officers to bolster the police department’s Homelessness Services Team. Councilors will also…

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www.salemreporter.com

Oregon’s Rayfield, other Democratic AGs sue Trump over SNAP benefits

One in six Oregonians — including more than 214,000 children — receive food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

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