Pittsburgh Food Bank Struggles as Governor Shapiro Fights Federal Funding Cuts

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Governor Josh Shapiro is challenging the USDA’s choice to revoke $13 million in support for the Local Food Purchasing Assistance Program. This initiative was set to aid 189 Pennsylvania farms over the coming three years.

On Wednesday, Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis facilitated a roundtable meeting at the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to address issues of food insecurity across the state along with a fundraising initiative. State and municipal officials have warned that without these financial resources, both farmers and food banks could face significant difficulties.

We definitely require the support of the federal government because absorbing the proposed budget cuts isn’t feasible," Davis stated. "I believe everyone needs to face this reality head-on.

The Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA) offers financial assistance to states aiming to buy locally sourced foods, thereby aiding farmers and providing sustenance for Pennsylvania’s households.

Based on data from Feeding Pennsylvania, which collaborates with Feeding America, LFPA has bought 27.2 million pounds of produce directly from PA farmers. Additionally, LFPA has injected $23.6 million into the state’s food and agriculture sector, resulting in 22.6 million meals being supplied to families facing hunger.

Last week, Shapiro requested State Secretary of Agriculture, Russell Redding, to contest that ruling.

"The governor made the courageous decision to file an appeal, which remains unresolved at this time. We remain optimistic that in light of the increasing demands for food security that were discussed today, they will acknowledge the significance of collaboration both to themselves and to all of us," Redding stated.

Our collaboration with the food bank is incredible; it’s essentially what allows us to keep functioning," stated Ariel Ellington, who coordinates the food pantry at the East End Cooperative Ministry. "You might as well toss a stone in any direction around here because most of what we have likely comes from them.

One of the biggest food pantries in Pittsburgh operates five days a week providing groceries. Ariel mentioned they're noticing more newcomers, along with families visiting several times per week.

Everybody is feeling the strain from inflation and rising food costs. We've noticed an influx of new visitors, as well as regulars coming in more frequently," Ellington stated. "Unfortunately, our numbers have increased significantly; however, thankfully, we're able to assist them! There's always anxiety and obstacles. It's heartening to be part of such a robust and close-knit community. I believe we manage to overcome these difficulties somehow... which makes us quite lucky to call Pittsburgh home.

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