Weslaco produce store seeing fewer customers amid government shutdown

On Tuesday, President Donald Trump said SNAP benefits won't be distributed until the government reopens.

Trump’s comments came the day after the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it planned to issue partial payments.

READ MORE: Talks to end the government shutdown intensify as federal closure is on track to become longest ever

Trump’s decision means millions of families will get less help to put food on the table.

“It affects us a lot, look, where are the people?” Rosa Mireles said as she gestured at her empty business.

Mireles is the owner of Mid Valley Farms Produce in Weslaco. She said half of her customers rely on SNAP benefits to make purchases.

“There are people who really need those benefits," Mireles said, adding that shopping carts and baskets haven't been moved all day.

Mireles said she's seen customers having to limit what they buy as well.

“The people are only buying the basics,” Mireles said. “It’s sad because it’s not easy.”

Mireles said she hopes the government shutdown will end soon, and federal benefits will get disbursed so her customers and her business can get back on track.

“I don't know how people will cope, it will affect us greatly,” Mireles said.

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