By Blake Jackson
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture is distributing $2 million in grants to bolster food security efforts across the state. This initiative, announced by Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, aims to strengthen the capacity of food banks and expand access to healthy food, particularly in rural and low-income communities.
This grant program represents the second round of funding, following a previous allocation of $1.6 million in 2023. The funding comes at a crucial time, as inflation continues to strain household budgets and increase food prices.
A recent report identified Pennsylvania as experiencing the highest grocery price inflation nationwide, with rural areas and low-income communities disproportionately affected.
Among the 57 grant recipients, 30 organizations will receive $50,000 each. One noteworthy example is Schuylkill Community Action (SCA), which received funding for a mobile food pantry specifically serving Latino and rural residents. This initiative aims to eliminate transportation barriers and ensure equitable access to nutritious food for all residents of Schuylkill County.
In total, 32 counties will benefit from individual grants. Additionally, two regional grants will cover Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties, and Luzerne and Wyoming counties, respectively.
It's important to note that Pennsylvania's fight against food insecurity extends beyond state funding. In 2023, the federal government provided $42 million to the state to help offset rising school meal costs.
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Categories: Pennsylvania, Business