Officials highlight SNAP's role amid proposed federal cuts

Pennsylvania officials and leaders from local food organizations gathered to emphasize the crucial role of the Supplemental Nutrition Access Program (SNAP) in supporting the state's economy and fighting hunger. This comes in response to federal proposals that could cut food assistance for thousands of Pennsylvanians, potentially increasing state costs by over $1 billion annually.

SNAP assists nearly two million residents across Pennsylvania, helping them purchase food. The program primarily supports children and older adults but also aids low-income working families and individuals with disabilities.

"SNAP helps people meet one of our most essential needs - allowing them to participate fully in work and school and live healthier," stated Dr. Val Arkoosh, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. She expressed concern about congressional changes that could jeopardize food assistance for approximately 140,000 Pennsylvanians. "Should these proposals to change SNAP become law, vulnerable children, people with disabilities, older Pennsylvanians, and many others would see their access to food at risk and will further destabilize our agricultural economy and workforce during a tumultuous time."

The event featured remarks from Westmoreland Food Bank CEO Jennifer Miller, Feeding PA CEO Julie Bancroft, Commissioner Ted Kopas, DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh, and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding.