By Blake Jackson
Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, joined by Pennsylvania State Grange President Matt Espenshade and Candy Wasson of Wasson’s Farm and Market, recently highlighted the vital role the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) plays in supporting Pennsylvania agriculture, grocery industry jobs, and families especially those in rural areas.
Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized that Pennsylvania cannot offset the billions in losses that would occur if federal lawmakers were to cut SNAP funding.
“Radical SNAP reductions would hurt two million Pennsylvanians struggling to put healthy food on their tables. It would also be a direct blow to the farm families who supply grocers and farm markets, and the families of 12,000 Pennsylvanians who work in grocery industry jobs across the state directly supported by SNAP spending," Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said.
"The Shapiro Administration is doing our part, investing to see that no family goes hungry in Pennsylvania. We are calling on Congress to keep its promises and remember their commitments to Pennsylvania farmers, families, and businesses.”
SNAP helps nearly two million Pennsylvanians including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with children buy food.
In December 2024 alone, the program provided $366.8 million in federally funded benefits to Pennsylvania households, boosting both local retailers and farmers.
“SNAP helps people meet one of our most essential needs allowing them to participate fully in work and school and live healthier. 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,” said Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Executive Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes.
“Congress’ proposed changes would fundamentally destabilize this program that helps both our communities and our economy. These changes are not fiscally responsible – they will only disrupt our Commonwealth’s economy, workforce, and charitable food network and cause thousands of Pennsylvanians to go hungry.”
From June 2024 to June 2025, SNAP recipients spent nearly $1.8 million at Pennsylvania farmers markets.
“The proposed funding cuts to SNAP will not just impact our friends and neighbors in need who use these credits to buy fresh fruits, vegetables and meats, but the impact to Pennsylvania agriculture is equally concerning,” Pennsylvania State Grange President Matt Espenshade said.
Governor Shapiro continues to advocate for food access through increased funding and legal action against harmful federal cuts.
Photo Credit: snap
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy