More Long Islanders inquiring about aid as shutdown continues

Federal workers living on Long Island are set to miss another paycheck as the government shutdown reaches more than a month in length.
Nassau County officials are assessing the long-term effects on Long Islanders who are furloughed or working without pay.
The shutdown has put incredible financial stress on countless working families on Long Island. Many who never relied on assistance are now reaching out.
"Since the shutdown began, Long Island Cares has provided food for more than -- it's actually 80 now -- federal workers and fielded over 600 calls inquiring about their services," says U.S. Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-Garden City).
Federal funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits is set to expire at the end of February if the shutdown does not end by then. That would directly impact nearly 50,000 Nassau residents who rely on the assistance.