Share Food Program expands with new food banks in Lansdale and Ridley Township

The Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee meeting held on March 6, 2025, focused on critical issues surrounding food security and support programs in Pennsylvania. Key discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by food banks and the importance of state support in addressing hunger in the region.

Representatives from the Share Food Program, a regional food bank serving Philadelphia and surrounding counties, reported on their efforts to combat food insecurity. They are in the process of opening two new food banks in Lansdale and Ridley Township this summer to better serve the community. The organization emphasized the stark contrast between the average cost of living, which exceeds $80,000 for a family of three, and the average income of about $57,000, leaving many families struggling to make ends meet.

The Share Food Program operates a network of several hundred food pantries and collaborates with the state Department of Agriculture to distribute USDA food to local schools. They ensure that approximately 300,000 children eligible for free lunch and breakfast receive necessary meals. However, representatives expressed concern over recent threats to USDA programs, which have historically been a vital source of food. They noted cancellations of food supplies and stressed the importance of state programs like the state food purchase program and the NAP program for maintaining food access.

Additionally, the meeting acknowledged the critical role of state employees in supporting these initiatives. The Share Food Program's vice president praised the state Department of Agriculture for their ongoing commitment to food security, especially during challenging times.

Michael Howells, vice president of the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, also spoke at the meeting, representing a network of over 3,000 supermarkets and convenience stores across the state. He highlighted the association's dedication to fighting hunger and reducing food waste, emphasizing the potential for collaboration between businesses and communities to create positive outcomes.

The discussions underscored the urgent need for continued support and funding for food assistance programs in Pennsylvania, as many families rely on these resources to navigate economic hardships. The committee's focus on these issues reflects a growing recognition of the importance of food security in the state.