In an effort to help those affected by the federal government shutdown numerous Island organizations are reaching out to help.

The Island Food Pantry has extended its hours of operation. The pantry is regularly open on Monday’s and Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. Additional hours will be Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The Martha’s Vineyard Bank has also announced it will work with its customers who are adversely affected by the current government shutdown if a “short term modification or extended grace period is need on a loan.” The bank’s solution center can be reached at 508-627-4266.

Cape Cod 5 has given a $30,000 donation to the Cape Cod Military Support Foundation and has offered zero per cent loans to those affected by the shutdown.

A fund has also been set up for Coast Guard employees. Checks can be sent to the Coast Guard Spouses’ Association of Menemsha, 20 Edy’s Island Way, Chilmark, MA 02535. Mocha Motts has also offered to feed Coast Guard employees for free.