Philadelphia Launches Food Aid Public Awareness Campaign

As Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits remain uncertain amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, Philadelphia officials have devised a plan to support affected residents, federal employees, and small businesses.

On Monday, Nov. 3, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker held an emergency meeting with 123 of the area's food aid nonprofits to create a public education campaign highlighting the city's free meal resources, grant opportunities for small businesses, and rental assistance for furloughed workers.

Philadelphia's food and meal finder enables individuals to locate nearby food pantries, community refrigerators, and sites where people can receive free food. Users can browse results by entering an address to find the nearest locations. No identification or proof of income is required at most food sites, but officials recommend calling ahead to inquire about hours and requirements. 

Members of the public can also call 311 for more information on finding free meals and receiving help applying for programs through BenePhilly's website or hotline at 800-994-5537. 

Several grocery stores, restaurants, shops, and organizations have also stepped up to offer free food to customers impacted by the SNAP benefits lapse. The Department of Commerce and the Merchant Fund are making an additional $500,000 in emergency revenue replacement grants available for small businesses such as grocers and food retailers.

According to PhillyVoice, up to $2 million in grants will be distributed from the city's Reinvestment Fund to support local food aid groups. Individual grants will range from $5,000 to $50,000 and are anticipated to be dispersed by Nov. 10. Applications were due on Wednesday, Nov. 5. After the deadline, applications can still be processed on a rolling basis as long as funds are available. 

"Families across Philadelphia live with a myriad of challenges every day. Facing food insecurity should never be one of them," said Parker to PhillyVoice. "Access to SNAP benefits has been an invaluable tool in our fight against food insecurity. This is why we've long partnered with local food banks and community organizations to demonstrate that hunger should have no place here and why it is essential that we assist in this moment of urgent need."