As SNAP cuts loom, Philabundance says it's already lost millions in federal funding

Philabundance reports losses of $525,000 in food due to federal cuts to nutrition programs and warns that proposed legislative changes could worsen food insecurity. The organization projects an additional $2 million loss in food over the next year, anticipating a 62% reduction in federal assistance in 2026 and 2027 compared to 2024. Cuts to the Emergency Food Assistance Program and the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement have critically impacted Philabundance’s purchasing power. CEO Loree D. Jones stated that approximately 600,000 people in the Delaware Valley lack enough food, with partners struggling to meet rising demand.

The proposed $267 billion reduction in food stamp funding could leave food banks with a significant shortfall. Philabundance staff and allies called on supporters to lobby Pennsylvania Senator Dave McCormick for necessary funding. Vince Hall from Feeding America noted that the proposed cuts could eliminate the equivalent of 9. 5 billion meals. The situation underscores the urgent need for federal support to combat food insecurity in the region.