CHICAGO (WLS) — This weekend, more food giveaways are happening as people wait for their full SNAP benefits to be restored following the end of the longest federal government shutdown in history.
Recipients are expected to receive their full payments by Thursday. In the meantime, a food giveaway will take place at Austin’s Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation at 9 a.m. on Saturday.
While the state has assured the nearly 2 million Illinois residents who rely on SNAP that they will receive full payments next week, many are still facing immediate food needs. People need food on the table now as they await their benefits.
To help meet this demand, the Greater Chicago Food Depository is hosting nine emergency food distribution events across the area on Saturday.
Attendees can receive a variety of groceries, including milk, bread, and a pre-packaged box of shelf-stable goods. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is expected to attend the Austin event.
For ongoing updates, ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7.
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**See also:**
– [ABC7 Chicago kicks off annual Feed the Love campaign as SNAP benefits remain in limbo](#)
– [How to donate](#)
https://abc7chicago.com/post/illinois-snap-benefits-recipients-await-funds-greater-chicago-food-depository-holds-austin-free-giveaway-today/18158300/