Increased state funding for anti-hunger programs helps Pennsylvania families, farmers, and food banks during an unprecedented time of need

November 12, 2025 (Harrisburg, PA) – Feeding Pennsylvania applauds the General Assembly and Governor Shapiro for investing in anti-hunger programs in the FY25-26 Budget. With hunger up 44% over two years and millions of people navigating the suspension of federally funded SNAP benefits, these funds demonstrate a commitment to over 1.7 million Pennsylvanians facing hunger.

Pennsylvania produces an abundance of food, but many of our neighbors lack the financial means to provide enough for their families’ needs. Rising costs of essentials like food, energy, and housing increase demand at food banks, as neighbors often prioritize shelter, transportation, and other necessities over food.

The $4 million increase in the State Food Purchase line item reflects bipartisan support for nourishing our neighbors and supporting agriculture, a key part of Governor Shapiro’s Economic Development Strategy. This is a crucial first step to addressing the resource gap within the charitable food network and ensuring food banks and pantries have the resources needed to help Pennsylvanians get back on their feet during a time of temporary crisis.

The investment will be shared between two programs, the State Food Purchase Program (SFPP) and the Pennsylvania Agricultural Surplus System (PASS). SFPP supplies funds to all 67 counties for food purchases, while PASS connects food banks with farmers to divert surplus crops to the charitable food system, providing fresh, local foods to those in need. Since its inception, PASS has invested over $31.9 million in local agriculture, delivering 38.3 million pounds of nutritious food to 7.9 million households.

Building on Governor Shapiro’s recent announcement of $5 million in emergency PASS funding to help address the surge in need caused by lapsed SNAP benefits, a finalized FY25-26 Commonwealth Budget offers more stability for Pennsylvania families and our already strained charitable food network. During a time when resources are particularly limited, we appreciate that the General Assembly and Governor Shapiro recognize these challenges and are investing in essential nutrition programs. We look forward to working with our elected officials to advocate for prioritization and ongoing investments in Pennsylvania’s anti-hunger initiatives.