Food banks rush to fill SNAP gap
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The federal shutdown halted SNAP benefits on Saturday, cutting off food aid for hundreds of thousands in the Pittsburgh region as nonprofits rush to fill the void.
Why it matters: SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, helps 2 million low-income Pennsylvanians, including about 385,000 in Southwestern Pennsylvania.
- Nearly 80% of benefits go to families with children, seniors and people with disabilities.
What they're saying: "We are in emergency response mode," Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank president Lisa Scales said Monday. "What's so hard is hearing from our neighbors who are scared and panicking and coming to us for services at an extremely high rate — higher than we've ever seen, even at the peak of the pandemic."
By the numbers: Roughly 160,000 Allegheny County residents receive $30 million in SNAP benefits monthly.
- For every 1 meal that food banks provide, SNAP provides 9 meals.
Catch up quick: The shutdown froze SNAP benefits for the first time in the program's 60-year history after the USDA argued it couldn't use contingency funds to help cover November payments.
- The Trump administration on Monday announced plans to partially fund SNAP benefits using the emergency cash after two federal judges ruled on Friday the money must be released.
Yes, but: The administration said benefits could roll out within weeks or take several months depending on how quickly states can implement changes required for distribution, Axios' Josephine Walker reports.
- The USDA's contingency funds will only cover about 50% of November SNAP benefits, and the funding gap could linger if the shutdown drags on.
Flashback: Gov. Josh Shapiro on Friday released $5 million in emergency aid for food banks, about $800,000 of which is expected to go to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, and launched the SNAP Emergency Relief Fund.
Between the lines: Across Western Pennsylvania, local restaurants and delivery services are offering free or discounted meals to those who have lost SNAP benefits.
Here's how to help families fight hunger as the shutdown drags on.
- Regional food banks — like the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank — say financial donations are most helpful, but shelf-stable food donations are needed, too. United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is urging financial donations as food requests soar 187% over last year, president Bobbi Watt Geer said Monday.
- Check with your local pantry to see how you can donate.
- Lend a hand at a local food bank, pantry or kitchen — or via apps like Too Good To Go and Food Rescue Hero that deliver surplus food.
- Start or contribute to a meal train or food drive, drop off groceries or host a mini pantry for neighbors at home. Use social media to rally donations and connect with those in need.
- Ask your local school district if it runs a backpack meal program or other nutrition services for students.