Tackling Food Insecurity: Pennsylvania's Collaborative Approach

In a state where abundance should be the norm, the reality of food insecurity continues to plague too many Pennsylvanians. However, a coalition of state and local leaders is shedding light on this pressing issue and outlining the steps being taken to address it. From legislative initiatives to community-driven efforts, the Keystone State is mobilizing resources and forging partnerships to ensure no one is left behind when it comes to accessing nutritious, affordable food.

Empowering Communities, Nourishing Families

Addressing the Scope of Food Insecurity

According to Feeding America, Pennsylvania's food insecurity rate is staggering, with one in eight residents and one in six children facing some form of food insecurity. This crisis spans the entire commonwealth, with no county left untouched. The factors contributing to this issue are multifaceted, ranging from the rising cost of living to the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic. Pennsylvanians are often forced to make the difficult choice between paying their bills and putting food on the table for their families.

Bipartisan Collaboration for Hunger Relief

Leading the charge in the fight against hunger are Sen. Elder Vogel Jr. (R-47) and Rep. Emily Kinkead (D-20), co-chairs of the Legislative Hunger Caucus. Together, they oversee the Capitol Hunger Garden, a project that has been in operation since 2010. This collaborative effort, maintained by volunteers, Penn State Master Gardeners, and the Department of General Services, has donated hundreds of pounds of fresh produce to Downtown Daily Bread, providing nourishing meals to the homeless in the Harrisburg area. This year alone, the garden has yielded 426 pounds of produce, with more to come as the growing season continues.

State Agencies Stepping Up

The Pennsylvania Departments of Agriculture and Human Services play a critical role in addressing food insecurity across the state. Secretary Russell Redding and Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh have outlined their departments' ongoing efforts to connect Pennsylvanians in need with vital nutrition and food assistance programs.Secretary Redding emphasized the importance of partnerships, stating, "In a state where we have so much bounty, no one should go hungry. Partnerships with Feeding Pennsylvania, Hunger-Free Pennsylvania, and groups like Hunters Sharing the Harvest extend our reach to Pennsylvanians who need our help." Through initiatives like the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System and Local Food Purchase Assistance, the Department of Agriculture has ensured that over $15 million in Pennsylvania-produced food has reached families in need across the state, while also supporting local farms and communities.Secretary Arkoosh echoed the sentiment, highlighting the state's commitment to providing dignity and peace of mind to all Pennsylvanians. "Helping our communities affected by food insecurity requires public investment in anti-hunger initiatives and strong partnerships with agriculture, anti-hunger organizations, and private partners – work that DHS is proud to support," she said. The Department of Human Services oversees critical programs like SNAP, ensuring that those in need have access to the resources they require to put food on the table.

Hunters Sharing the Harvest: A Unique Approach

Hunters Sharing the Harvest, led by Executive Director Randy Ferguson, offers a unique perspective on the fight against hunger. Last year alone, Pennsylvania hunters donated an impressive 262,000 pounds (approximately 7,000 deer) of venison, which equates to 1.3 million servings of protein-rich food for the food-insecure in the state. Over the course of the organization's 33-year history, they have donated a staggering 2.5 million pounds of venison, making a significant impact on the lives of those struggling with food insecurity.

Legislative Efforts: Investing in Hunger Relief

The Pennsylvania General Assembly has demonstrated its commitment to addressing food insecurity through strategic budgetary allocations. In the current state budget, the legislature has allocated:- $98.8 million toward School Food Services- $26.7 million toward the State Food Purchase Program under the Department of Agriculture- $2 million toward the Fresh Food Financing Initiative under the Department of Agriculture- $1 million toward the Food Access Initiative under the Department of Community and Economic Development, which funds the DCED Fresh Food Financing Initiative administered by The Food TrustThese investments showcase the state's dedication to ensuring that all Pennsylvanians have access to the nourishment they need to thrive.