Food Podcast: Acting Secretary of Pa. DHS highlights increase in SNAP benefits
On the latest episode of the Food Podcast presented by Clearview Federal Credit Union on the TribLIVE podcast network, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank talks to Megan Snead, Acting Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.
Snead has been visiting food banks across Pennsylvania for hunger action month, and wants to make sure people are accessing critical programs including SNAP.
“For every meal provided by the charitable food network, SNAP provides nine,” said Snead.
Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank has seen a noticeable increase in the number of people submitting SNAP applications in the past fiscal year. In fiscal year 2020, the Food Bank saw 1,852 SNAP applications, while in fiscal year 2021, the Food Bank saw 3,418 SNAP applications.
The Food Bank expects to see even more applications this fall as the USDA permanently increases SNAP benefits by 25%.
Snead says she has always been interested in working to find solutions to food insecurity.
“My very first job out of college was for a very small non-profit out of Aurora, Colorado. We worked with families who lived in motels along Denver’s main strip. We had a food pantry in the basement of the church. Every week, twice a week I would drive our 15-passenger van to the food bank, stock it up with stuff and bring it to the pantry. It’s really come full circle to now be in the position I am in as the acting secretary of the department,” said Snead.
To apply for SNAP or to get connected with a food resource program near you, call the Food Bank at 412-460-3663 ext. 655.
To learn more about the Food Bank, visit pittsburghfoodbank.org.
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