"The nation is going through a financial crisis. Even without this government shutdown, people are forced to choose between caring for their pets and caring for their families," Gonzalez said, adding that the shutdown has "just exacerbated those conditions."

Tens of millions of Americans who rely on the nation’s largest federal food assistance program have been caught in a weekslong swirl of Trump administration pronouncements, court orders and anxiety since the US government shutdown has called their ability to buy groceries into question.

One of the top concerns in the shutdown fight has been Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, which have seen a back-and-forth in the courts over payments during the last few days. Even with the Senate’s latest move, there’s still a lot of uncertainty and confusion about SNAP benefits.

At Stockton ’s Weberstown Farmers Market, shoppers wander between booths filled with fruits, vegetables and nuts. For some, finding the best deal is the biggest challenge. For others, like Ana Villagomez, just knowing whether help is coming is harder.

Hundreds of thousands of federal workers remained furloughed amid the government shutdown. Here's what happens if the shutdown ends.

The record-long government shutdown is affecting air travel and food stamp benefits. Follow here for the latest news updates.

The government shutdown is now on Day 40 as senators are set to return to Capitol Hill for a rare Sunday session. Follow live updates here.