Halloween is the deadline to register for holiday meals from Portage County food pantries this year, but there is a growing concern of an overarching food security crisis in the community.

At Family and Community Services’ two branches, Kent Social Services and The Center of Hope in Ravenna, they are seeing an increased number of locals stopping in for food.

“I have never seen it like this,” said LaJoyce Harris, the director of The Center of Hope, who expects to be busy with holiday orders but is now facing a compressed need amid the ongoing government shutdown.

Heading into November, changes to SNAP benefits remain uncertain, and local agencies are awaiting guidance to respond to the need.

“It is now a crisis,” Harris said. “We’re already feeling the impact of people panicking because the EBT has not been cut off yet, but that’s what they’re anticipating, and they’re making sure they have enough food in their home.”

The Hope for the Holidays program from Family and Community Services is still accepting registrations for holiday meals till Friday, including gifts and toy registrations for children.

Anyone looking to register must come in person and bring a photo ID, proof of residency, and proof of eligibility. For toys: a birth certificate, a social security card or a school record for each child registered.

Sydney Brown is a Kent Stater TV Reporter. Contact her at [email protected].