A government shutdown could impact people in our community who may need a helping hand when it comes to getting food on the table.

The official travel period at Orlando International Airport started on Friday. Nearly three million people are expected to pass through the gates between now and Jan. 5, a one percent increase from last year’s record numbers.

If the government shuts down, essential services remain in place, but others will be stopped or delayed. Here are some ways a government shutdown could affect people living in Central Florida.

With the possibility of a government shutdown happening, local non-profits have been preparing for an additional strain from families who receive food support through federal programs.