Amidst a struggling economy, government shutdown, and uncertain SNAP benefits, TikTok has become an unexpected hub for mutual aid, with users setting up pop-up food pantries to feed their communities. One of the most viral examples of these DIY food pantries came from AJ Owen (@ ajpgh412). In a teary TikTok, Owen describes how his front-yard food pantry has helped countless people, before revealing that an anonymous donor dropped off an envelope stuffed with cash. Across TikTok and other platforms, similar pop-up pantries are multiplying — digital proof that grassroots generosity can spread as quickly as any viral trend.
 
 (Video Credit: AJ Owen (@ ajpgh412) via TikTok) #government #shutdown #snap #news #breakingnews