Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe are urging community action as the federal government shutdown disrupts the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Commissioners are calling on both those in need and those able to help to take immediate action.
Their message is two-fold:
- Individuals and families in need of food assistance should contact their local food pantry or hot meal site for support.
- Residents, businesses, and organizations able to give are encouraged to donate food or make financial contributions to local food programs.
Nearly 30,000 Chester County residents rely on SNAP benefits to help purchase groceries each month. Due to the federal shutdown, SNAP payments are paused beginning November 1 and will not resume until a federal budget is approved and payments are reinstated.
The Human Needs Network’s 211 Navigators have reported an increase in calls from residents seeking food support as a result of the suspension of SNAP benefits. Navigators continue to connect individuals and families with food providers across Chester County.
The Commissioners commended the Chester County Food Bank and its network of partner organizations for their tireless efforts to ensure that no residents go hungry during this difficult time. A full list of local food providers can be found in the “Find Food” section of the Food Bank’s website at www.chestercountyfoodbank.org.
“This is a stressful time for many families who depend on SNAP benefits,” said Commissioners Maxwell, Moskowitz, and Roe. “Chester County has always shown compassion and resilience in times of need, and this is certainly one of those times.
“We encourage everyone who can to step forward and help – and remind anyone struggling to call 211, not only for food resources, but also for assistance with housing, utilities, medical services, and other human needs.”
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) will notify SNAP recipients once payments resume. In the meantime, recipients must continue to complete renewals and report any changes in income, contact information, or household members during the shutdown.
