Pennsylvania’s charitable food network is facing an unprecedented challenge. Four months into the state budget impasse, food banks and pantries across the Commonwealth are operating without essential funding from the State Food Purchase Program (SFPP) and the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS). These programs are critical to our charitable food network, providing fresh, locally grown produce, dairy, and protein to families in need while supporting Pennsylvania’s farmers.
At the same time, the ongoing federal government shutdown has put the distribution of November SNAP payments in jeopardy, which will drive even more families to food banks already operating with fewer resources.
The charitable food system cannot continue to shoulder this burden alone. State lawmakers must return to Harrisburg and pass a budget that restores funding for SFPP and PASS and ensures that every Pennsylvanian has access to the food they need.
Use this form to contact your legislators today. As a trusted voice in your community, your advocacy can make the difference in securing the resources needed to keep our shelves stocked and our neighbors fed.