Anxiety grows in KELOLAND as government shutdown drags on

Featured on KELOLAND NEWS on 11/6/2025

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — The government shutdown has officially become the longest in our country’s history.

Around 12,000 federal workers in South Dakota are affected. And another 75,000 residents could be affected by the disruption of federal SNAP benefits. Organizations like the Faith Temple Church and its food giveaway are seeing an increase in need. Pastor Jeff Hayes says the uncertainty surrounding the government shutdown increases anxiety.

“We talk to people all the time and we were talking to people this week and a lot of them are just scared because they are not going to get food stamps. They are wondering where their next food and meal is coming from,” said Pastor Hayes.

Food banks are facing increased demand due to a combination of the higher cost of food items and the ongoing federal government shutdown.
People who have never sought assistance before are finding their way to food banks out of need. Nearly 75 thousand South Dakotans depend on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or snap to buy groceries.

As for the 12 thousand federal workers in South Dakota, most are going without a paycheck. First Dakota Bank has offered no interest loans to workers trying to make it through.

“We’ve received over 50 applications and actually made over 45 loans for over half a million dollars to federal workers. We certainly anticipate that as this elongates, we will get more inquiries as people need the money more,” said Dave Kroll, the bank’s Chief Lending Officer.

While the First Dakota National Bank’s Federal Employee Shutdown Relief Loan Program is helping, the mood of the American people is one of growing concern, stress, frustration, and disapproval towards political leaders. Everyone is hoping the shutdown ends soon.

Pastor Hayes says Governor Larry Rhoden called for churches to step up and do more during the government shutdown. Hayes says they have five semi loads of potatoes to give away, and he is calling on area churches to come get a supply. Church’s and organizations willing to help distribute the food can contact the Faith Temple Church.

Click here for full story on KELOLAND.