UPDATE: In a powerful display of community spirit, hundreds of Delaware County residents came together on Saturday to support local food banks amid an escalating SNAP crisis that has left many vulnerable residents without essential food resources. The urgent Community Food Drive, held at the former Don Guanella School, saw vehicles lining up early as donations poured in from generous locals determined to help their neighbors in need.
The event lasted three hours and was organized in response to the uncertain status of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports approximately 77,000 residents in the county. As of now, many families are struggling to secure food as SNAP benefits have been delayed due to the federal government shutdown that began on October 1, 2023.
“We wanted to do a countywide food drive to help fill the pantries,” said Delaware County Council Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. “We knocked out the middleman. We have the pantries here, and volunteers are transferring donations directly into their vehicles.”
The need for assistance is urgent. Reports indicate that many residents are facing a week-long delay in their benefits, forcing them to make difficult decisions about feeding their families. “It’s heartbreaking that people are in this position,” Taylor added. “They have funding available; they could fund the program. It’s a matter of humanity.”
The situation intensified following a legal challenge that required federal officials to process SNAP payments. While Governor Josh Shapiro announced on Friday that benefits would resume, a temporary hold was placed by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, further complicating the situation. “They’re playing with people’s lives,” Taylor emphasized, echoing the frustrations of many in the community.
As cars continued to line Sproul Road on Saturday morning, the outpouring of generosity was overwhelming. Volunteers reported a steady stream of donors arriving long before the event’s official start time of 9:00 AM. “We had a line at 8:30,” Taylor said. “It’s just amazing how Delaware County always shows up for each other.”
U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon was present at the drive and expressed her gratitude for the community’s response. “The White House might not get it, but Delco does,” she remarked, highlighting the importance of local efforts amid federal inaction. “Seeing our local folks understand how important this is and come out by the hundreds is heartwarming.”
The scale of the response was significant, with approximately eight food pantries represented at the drive, and volunteers assisting with the transfer of donations from donor vehicles to pantry trucks. George Matysik, executive director of the Share Food Program, noted a twelvefold increase in new registrants seeking assistance in just two weeks, underscoring the growing need in the community.
“This makes a huge difference,” Matysik stated. “We can provide a variety of foods that allow community members to choose what they want, which is vital.”
The collaboration among local volunteers and residents was palpable as people worked side by side to support those in need. “Delaware County residents are amazing,” Taylor added. “Our Citizens Corps filled all volunteer slots within minutes. It feels good to see everyone come together.”
Despite the challenges posed by the SNAP delays, the sense of unity and hope was evident. Volunteers and donors alike expressed their desire to help others. “This is what Delco does: they show up for each other,” said volunteer Lisa Ferri. “People need this to live, and it’s a wonderful moment for our community.”
For those who wish to assist further, Taylor encouraged ongoing support for local food pantries and donations to the Share Food Program. The county has also launched a new “Community Resources” web page listing food pantries and their contact information for residents in need.
As the community continues to navigate this crisis, the commitment displayed on Saturday serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience within Delaware County. “I love our county,” Taylor concluded. “This turnout is a testament to who we are. We always show up for each other.”
