In a joint news release, Gov. Spencer Cox, Utah Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz said Thursday the initiative “helps Utahns maintain access to essential food support while federal leaders refuse to act.”

The Legislature approved an immediate payment of $500,000 to the Utah Food Bank, and has allocated $500,000 every following week until reaching a total of $4 million, or until the government resumes regular operations. The Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget will oversee the funds’ distribution.

“Washington has failed to do its job,” Gov. Spencer Cox said in a statement. “Utah is stepping up so families, especially those in rural communities, can keep food on the table. Because Utah Food Bank serves Utahns in all 29 counties, additional state resources will reach small towns and city neighborhoods alike, including our federal employee neighbors who’ve gone too long without a paycheck.”

Last week, Adams said the state isn’t equipped to fund federal programs for weeks or months, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which is not being funded in November in the midst of the shutdown.

Republican legislative leaders urged Congress to end the shutdown, many faulting Democrats for it.

“The responsibility to end this shutdown lies with our federal partners in Washington. Congress must stop the political games and reopen the government. Every day this shutdown drags on, hardworking Americans are hurt. It’s time for Congress to do its job and put the American people first,” Adams said in a statement Thursday.

Congressional Democrats argue that the shutdown came after Republicans refused to negotiate over extending subsidies for health insurance policies offered under the Affordable Care Act. Those subsidies are set to expire at the end of the year.

The Utah leaders urged faith-based organizations, nonprofits and the community to join the initiative and support local food banks and pantries.

“We’re providing targeted, temporary, and accountable support to ensure every dollar makes a real difference and that the most vulnerable Utahns get the help they need,” Schultz said in the release. “We’re calling on all Utahns — nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, and families — to step up, lend a hand, and make a difference. It’s in moments like this that we see what truly makes Utah special.”

More information on ways to donate to the food emergency efforts is available at Utah Food Bank’s website.