Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has declared a disaster emergency amid the looming SNAP benefits crisis.
Shapiro is directing $5 million to Feeding Pennsylvania immediately to help distribute through its network of food banks across the state.
Nearly two million people in Pennsylvania, including children and the elderly, could be left without access to food if Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are frozen due to the partial shutdown of the federal government.
Organizations like Philabundance warn that food banks are already operating at capacity and are preparing for a 20% increase in demand.
The governor has also launched a private emergency fund that has already raised over $1 million to ensure families receive food during the crisis.
“Nearly two million Pennsylvanians rely on SNAP every month — and they shouldn’t have to wonder where their next meal will come from because of the dysfunction in Washington,” said Shapiro.
The state is also strengthening school programs and local initiatives to support access to fresh food for vulnerable communities.
Governor Shapiro is also now encouraging Pennsylvanians who can support their local food
banks and pantries. Visit feedingpa.org to learn more about donating or volunteering.
If you’re affected, NBC10 has compiled a list of resources that may be helpful in your state.