Could you survive on $6 or less per day? What could you purchase? It may sound like an impossible challenge, but this is the mountain that millions of Americans climb each and every day. The task could become much more Sisyphean if Congress passes the House’s budget proposal, which aims to eliminate at least $230 billion from the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) over the next ten years. The Local Impact of SNAP Reductions SNAP is a vital resource for many Bucks County families, providing essential assistance to purchase groceries. The proposed cuts indicate a 20% reduction in benefits, translating to fewer meals on the table for thousands of households. With over 48,000 Bucks County residents currently relying on SNAP benefits to meet their basic nutritional needs, these cuts would likely exacerbate food insecurity and strain local support systems. Given that SNAP benefits are already modest, averaging around $6 per person per day, any decrease could have dire consequences in an uncertain economic landscape like ours. Consider the story of a mother in our community who relies on SNAP to feed her family: “As someone who relies solely on $210 a month in benefits to eat – with zero money spent on fast food (well, okay, so, my kid and I set aside $30 to SPLURGE a couple times a year when we just really need Panda Express), what I can tell you about that shopping cart is this: someone in line WILL say something about what you buy. Doesn’t matter – though in this case you’d likely be lectured about the health benefits of making your own pot pies from scratch and encouraged to grow your own veggies and bake from scratch as if you have that many hours available in your day when you’re hustling to survive.“This is also where it becomes really clear as to why a lot of folks using food stamps lean into the non perishable food options, invariably more processed, but a bag of beans and bag of rice is an investment you make in your next month’s food choices. And those caffeinated drinks in a can don’t require a coffee maker, clean water and electricity. “But, you could have also filled the cart with the veggies to make pot pies and someone in line (or checking you out) WILL still find something to snark about. “Our household is bracing for the worst, we’re searching for deals on staples we can stock up on, because not being prepared isn’t an option.” The Human Impact of Cutting SNAP Benefits As Congress deliberates over just how much food they want to take away from impoverished families, a decade of hunger looms on the horizon. No matter the final number in the budget, the future of our nation’s families hangs in the balance. This budget slashing has been proposed under the guise of “efficiency” or “eliminating fraud.” Make no mistake of the true intention: punish our impoverished neighbors and use the profits of their suffering to fund tax breaks for those at the other end of the economic spectrum. There are a myriad of other federal programs that wouldn’t feel the impact of such cuts, but those don’t assist disadvantaged communities. The cruelty is the point. It’s our responsibility to speak up on behalf of our neighbors whose voices have been dismissed, ignored, and suppressed. No, SNAP Cuts Will Not Fix the Economy SNAP accounted for just 1.84% of the most recent federal budget, so the program is not the financial burden that some make it out to be. Supporters of this harmful reduction defend the proposal by citing the broader long-term economic benefits it could provide. Claims like this are, at best, misinformed conjecture and, at worst, intentional deceit. In fact, a recent study found that the proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid would precipitate major negative economic impacts. According to the Commonwealth Fund’s report, state gross domestic products (GDPs) would be $113 billion lower, exceeding federal budget savings. About 1.03 million jobs would be lost nationwide in health care, food-related industries, and other sectors. State and local governments would lose $8.8 billion in state and local tax revenues. BCHG’s Comprehensive Support Amidst Uncertainty At Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG), we recognize that food insecurity often intersects with other challenges such as housing instability and financial hardship. Our programs are designed to address these interconnected issues: Food Assistance: Operating two choice-based food pantries in Doylestown and Penndel, two mobile markets, and three community gardens, we provide nutritious food options to those in need. Housing Services: With four shelters and 87 scattered-site rental units, our supportive housing programs assist families facing homelessness or housing crises. Housing Counseling: Our HUD-certified counselors offer guidance on budgeting, credit repair, and navigating the housing market, empowering our neighbors to achieve long-term stability. By addressing the root causes of poverty and instability, BCHG helps mitigate the impact of potential SNAP reductions, ensuring that our community members have the support they need to thrive. What Can We Do? It may be tempting to succumb to the feelings of dread and despair that these proposals elicit, but change does not come from wallowing – it comes from action. That’s why we remain committed to making every effort to close the door on hunger and homelessness in Bucks County. You can join us in our mission by volunteering, holding a food drive, or simply sharing our posts on social media. Any form of advocacy makes a massive impact. Your donation to BCHG enables us to allocate resources where they’re needed most, whether that’s expanding our housing programs, enhancing our educational workshops, or bolstering our food assistance efforts. With your support, we can lift up our neighbors in need, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Written byNick Madson View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bucks County Housing Group (@buckscountyhousinggroup)
March is Women’s History Month—a time to celebrate the contributions, leadership, and resilience of women across history and in our everyday lives. At Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG), we’re proud to recognize the powerful role that women play in our organization and in our community’s fight against hunger and homelessness. Women at the Heart of BCHG BCHG’s mission is driven forward every day by women—leading at the highest levels, showing up with compassion and care, and shaping the future of housing and food security in Bucks County. More than 50% of our senior leadership team is comprised of women, including those who manage our housing programs, coordinate community partnerships, and oversee day-to-day operations. Our Board of Directors also reflects this commitment to gender equity, with women making up half of our leadership, including our current Board President, Donna McQuillen. Beyond leadership, countless women on our staff and volunteer teams show up every day to support our neighbors with empathy, strength, and creativity. Whether they’re running our food pantries, helping a family transition into permanent housing, or counseling first-time homebuyers, these women are indispensable to our mission. The Disproportionate Impact of Hunger and Housing Insecurity on Women Women—especially single mothers—are among the most vulnerable populations when it comes to housing instability and food insecurity in Pennsylvania and across the country. According to the National Women’s Law Center, women are more likely than men to experience poverty at every stage of life, and single mothers face poverty rates nearly five times higher than married couples with children. In 2022 (the most recent year with available data), 28% of mother-only family groups nationwide lived below the poverty line, nearly double the rate of father-only family groups (U.S. Census Bureau, 2024). Women are also more likely to hold low-wage or part-time jobs, making it more difficult to afford stable housing and consistent access to food—especially when balancing caregiving responsibilities. These challenges are felt acutely in our region, where Bucks County’s cost of living continues to rise, placing further pressure on women-led households. As a female-forward organization, BCHG is proud to operate programs that work to combat the challenges facing vulnerable women in our community. How BCHG Supports Women in Bucks County Today Today, BCHG is proud to offer housing, food, and supportive services that meet the unique needs of women and families in Bucks County. The majority of families in our Supportive Housing Program are single mother households. These women are often navigating complex challenges like job loss, domestic violence, or lack of affordable childcare—all while trying to secure a safe place to live and provide for their children. The dedicated SHP Case Managers help families transition from homelessness to stability. In this program, our neighbors receive personalized support to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency, whether that means help finding childcare, applying for benefits, or pursuing education and full-time employment. In our food pantries, women of all ages—many of them primary caregivers—access nutritious groceries that help stretch tight budgets and ensure their families don’t go hungry. These programs don’t just offer temporary relief—they empower Bucks County’s women in need to build stronger, more stable futures for themselves and their children. Celebrating Women, Empowering Communities As we reflect on Women’s History Month, we honor the women who have led and continue to lead the way—both within BCHG and throughout our broader community. Their courage, commitment, and compassion remind us that when women are supported, entire communities grow stronger. Thank you to the women of BCHG—past, present, and future—for your work, your leadership, and your heart. Written byNick Madson
Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Black community and the progress we have made since our nation’s inception. However, it is imperative that we simultaneously acknowledge and address the systemic inequities that persist. We have made strides toward equality, but we are not done marching. At Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG), fair housing for all is at the core of our mission. We are committed to addressing these challenges and advocating for equitable solutions that create lasting change. In Bucks County, Black residents continue to face disparities in access to stable housing and nutritious food. According to Feeding America, 22% of Bucks County’s food-insecure population is Black. However, Black residents make up just 4.8% of the overall population in Bucks. At BCHG, we recognize the urgency of addressing these underlying systemic issues through initiatives like community food drives, partnerships with other nonprofits, and advocating for policies that promote food equity. Housing has long been at the center of the fight for racial equity in the United States, and Bucks County is no exception. From early segregation to landmark efforts in integration, the region’s history reflects both the challenges and the progress made in achieving fair housing for all. As we recognize Black History Month, we highlight key moments in our community’s housing history—moments that continue to shape the fight for equitable housing today and inspire the work we do every day. Levittown: A Suburb Built on Segregation When Levittown was built in the 1950s, it was designed as an affordable suburban community—but only for white families. Black homebuyers were explicitly excluded through racially restrictive covenants, a practice that was common in mid-century suburban developments. In August 1957, William and Daisy Myers bought a house on Deepgreen Lane and, along with their three children, became the first Black family to move into Levittown. That move-in day led to nine continuous days of threats, harassment and violence toward the Myers family. They endured intermittent racist provocation for some time thereafter, but remained Levittown residents until 1961. Ultimately, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania issued an injunction to stop what it called “an unlawful, malicious and evil conspiracy” by Levittown neighbors and convicted the ringleaders of violating the Myerses’ rights. Though the Fair Housing Act would not be passed for another eleven years after their move to Levittown, the Myers family’s courage in standing their ground became a defining moment in the struggle for civil rights in Bucks County. Linconia-Concord Park: An Integration Amalgamation While Levittown resisted integration, other parts of Bucks County saw efforts to create inclusive communities. Just ten miles away, the overwhelming racial imbalance in housing sparked two significant initiatives to open the market to people of color in Bensalem Township. In 1923, Frank K. Brown, a Neshaminy Falls farmer, recognized the need for Black homeownership and set aside eighty acres near Route 1, calling it “Linconia.” He invited African American families to build homes there, offering them an opportunity for stability and community. Decades later, civil rights advocate and builder Morris Milgram took another bold step toward integration. He acquired fifty acres near Linconia and, in 1954, developed Concord Park—one of the first intentionally integrated suburban communities in the country. His vision was to create a neighborhood where Black and white families could live as equals, challenging the segregationist norms of the time. In 1969, the Linconia Men’s Association and Concord Park Civic Association joined to become the Lin-Park Civic Association, with this purpose: “To serve the social needs of the community, foster civic improvements, and encourage civic pride.” In recent years, Lin-Park’s diversity has grown with an infusion of other ethnicities—an enduring symbol of the fight for fair housing in Bucks County. “Looking back, we can see that Lin-Park came a long way. Down through the years many times we learned to make bricks from straw. But always, God walked with us. When we look at our present generation of young men and women, we cannot help but feel that it was worth the fight. But we can’t stop now because the next generation is at the doorstep.” –Marjorie S. Hadley, corresponding secretary of the Lin-Park Civic Association (1984) The Fair Housing Act and Its Local Impact The Fair Housing Act of 1968 made racial discrimination in housing illegal nationwide, including in Bucks County. While this legislation marked a turning point, enforcement has remained a challenge. Over the years, local fair housing advocates and organizations like BCHG have worked to ensure that all residents—regardless of race—have access to stable, affordable housing. The effects of past discrimination, however, are still felt today in the form of homeownership gaps, lending disparities, and housing affordability challenges. Warminster Heights: A Community’s Transformation Warminster Heights, originally built in 1943 as worker housing for a nearby aeronautical plant, evolved into a predominantly Black neighborhood over the subsequent decades. As conditions in the community declined, residents faced economic hardship and substandard housing. In 1986, they took ownership of their future by converting the neighborhood into a housing cooperative, giving residents control over their homes and community improvements. Today, Bucks County Housing Group’s office is directly across the street from Warminster Heights, and the Serving Bucks Together (SBT) Center—a collaborative hub offering food assistance, housing support, and other vital resources—is located within the neighborhood itself. This direct connection reflects our commitment to supporting the community and continuing the fight for housing equity. Black History Month Events in Bucks County Black History Month offers an opportunity to explore and celebrate the lives, culture, and contributions of African Americans in our community. However, this education shouldn’t end once we turn the calendar to March. Check out these ongoing events to learn more about Black history in Bucks County: Gather Place Museum Gather Place Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization in Yardley, Pennsylvania, owned and operated by Shirley Lee Corsey, an African American woman and third-generation Yardley native. Housed in the historic 1877-built African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church of Yardley, the museum embodies a rich heritage and is located in the borough’s Historic District. Gather Place Museum aims to unveil forgotten aspects of Yardley Borough, Bucks County, and Pennsylvania’s Quaker founders, including African American and Women’s history. Since its debut on September 10, 2022, Gather Place Museum has evolved into a living history museum, offering exhibits, documents, photos, documentaries, and interactive history lessons. Visitors can partake in historical reenactments, embracing the West African Griot tradition, where history is conveyed through stories. Open on weekends from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, the museum also accommodates weekday appointments. Under the leadership of Ms. Corsey and her dedication to “bringing history to life,” Gather Place Museum hosts monthly special events and programs providing unique opportunities to engage with history and culture. Open Saturday-Sunday from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM Weekday appointments are available by request. 188 S Canal St, Yardley, PA 19067 More Info: Gather Place Museum “Yesterday’s Dreams Are Real: Collecting Black Art and The Legacy of Lewis Tanner Moore” at the Michener Art Museum This exhibition celebrates the legacy of Lewis Tanner Moore (1953-2024), who championed the work of Black artists throughout his life, challenging institutions like the Michener Art Museum to prioritize diversity in their collecting and exhibition practices. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM 138 South Pine Street, Doylestown, PA More Info: Michener Art Museum Underground Railroad Tours: The African American Museum of Bucks County This exceptional museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of African Americans in Bucks County. Currently, the museum offers private tours of the different Underground Railroad sites throughout Bucks County for groups of 15 or more. Virtual tours are also available online. For more information about which tour option best fits your group, please contact the Museum at 215-752-1909 or email info@aamuseumbucks.org Written byNick Madson
As Girl Scout Cookie Season kicks off, we often think of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Trefoils. But Girl Scouts do more than just sell cookies—they’re dedicated to service, leadership, and making a difference in their communities. This past fall, Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania‘s Troop 2315 put these values into action by creating a collection of nutritious, budget-friendly recipes using common food pantry staples. And they didn’t stop there—they braved a rainy day to share samples of their recipes at one of Bucks County Housing Group’s food distribution events at our Doylestown pantry. Cooking Healthy on a Budget: The Challenge of Food Insecurity For families experiencing food insecurity, access to healthy food is often a challenge. Processed and unhealthy foods tend to be more affordable and have a longer shelf life than fresh produce, whole grains, and lean proteins. This can make it difficult for individuals and families to maintain a nutritious diet. Troop 2315’s initiative highlights the importance of finding creative ways to make healthy meals accessible, even when resources are limited. How BCHG Ensures Access to Nutritious Food At Bucks County Housing Group, we’re committed to providing not just food, but nutritious food to our community. Thanks to our local partners like Giant, Weis, BJ’s, and Philabundance, BCHG’s food pantries stock fresh fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Additionally, our three community gardens—located at our Penndel, Doylestown, and Robert Morris sites—help supply fresh produce to families in need. By offering a variety of healthy options, we strive to give our neighbors the tools they need to prepare nourishing meals for their families. One challenge for families (especially those facing food insecurity) is that fresh produce and other nutritious ingredients often have a shorter shelf life than processed foods, making it difficult to incorporate them into meals before they spoil. The Girl Scouts’ recipe collection helps bridge this gap by providing simple, practical ways to use pantry staples alongside fresh ingredients. By demonstrating how to turn these items into complete, delicious meals, they’ve made it easier for families to get the most out of the fresh food they receive, reducing waste and promoting better nutrition. The Recipes: Pantry Staples Turned Delicious Meals Thanks to the hard work of Troop 2315, we now have a fantastic collection of simple, healthy recipes that can be made using ingredients commonly found at our food pantries. Below, you’ll find their recipes, which are designed to be affordable, nutritious, and easy to make at home. A Rainy Day with a Lasting Impact Despite the rain, the Girl Scouts showed up with enthusiasm, ready to share their recipes and samples with our pantry guests. Their dedication to making a difference is a reminder that small acts of service—like sharing a meal or a recipe—can have a meaningful impact. To continue their efforts, we now distribute copies of their recipe collection at our food pantries, ensuring that families have practical, easy-to-follow ideas for using the fresh ingredients they receive. We’re grateful for their support and for helping our community find new ways to turn pantry staples into nourishing, delicious meals. Written byNick Madson
Jack Frost has wrapped his frigid fingers around our region and he hasn’t shown interest of letting go anytime soon. There’s no denying it: winter’s chill has landed in Bucks County. For many of us, the icy weather provides opportunities to cozy up by the fire with our loved ones. However, for individuals experiencing homelessness, those harsh winter nights can be life-threatening. Exposure to cold weather can cause hypothermia and frostbite. Emergency shelters are critical in keeping vulnerable community members safe during these dangerous conditions. Thankfully, in Bucks County, Code Blue shelters offer our homeless neighbors a warm place to stay when temperatures drop below 26°F (in Central Bucks the threshold is 28°F or below). These shelters rely on community support and volunteers to remain operational throughout the winter. What Is Code Blue? A Code Blue is declared when temperatures or wind chills drop to 26°F or lower. However, some shelters have different criteria for opening. Contributing factors include wind chill, precipitation, and available volunteers. During Code Blue, emergency shelters open to provide warmth and safety overnight for those in need. Bucks County has Code Blue shelters in Lower, Central, and Upper Bucks. These shelters ensure that individuals facing homelessness have a safe place to escape the cold. Code Blue Shelters in Bucks County Lower Bucks County Advocates for Homeless & Those in Need (AHTN) operates the Code Blue Shelter in Lower Bucks County. The shelter will open December 1st through March 31, when the temperature is 26 degrees or below, including wind chill, and when they can secure 18 volunteers for each night. Guests need to be 18 or older as they do not take children. Locations: December 2024: Shir Ami 101 Richboro Newtown Road, Newtown, PA 18940 January 2025: Woodside Church 1667 Edgewood Road, Yardley, PA 19067 February 2025: Calvary Baptist Church 250 Green Lane, Bristol, PA 19007 March 2025: Morrisville Presbyterian Church 771 N. Pennsylvania Ave, Morrisville, PA 19067 Contact: Visit AHTN.org by 10:00 AM to check if the shelter is open. Call (215) 550-3868 x100 for updates. Central Bucks County Coalition to Shelter and Support the Homeless (CSSH) operates the Code Blue Shelter in Central Bucks County. The shelter is open from December 1 through March 31, when the temperature is 28 degrees or below, including wind chill. This year, the the shelter will open each Wednesday, regardless of temperature, when enough volunteers are available. Doors open at 7:30PM with walk-ins at anytime after. Guests are bussed out in the morning at 6:45AM. Locations: December 2024: Neshaminy Warwick Presbyterian Church 1401 Meetinghouse Road, Warminster, PA 18974 January 2025: Our Lady of Guadalupe 5194 Cold Spring Creamery Road, Doylestown, PA 18902 February 2025: Doylestown Presbyterian Church 127 East Court Street, Doylestown, PA 18901 March 2025: St. Paul’s Lutheran Church 301 North Main Street, Doylestown, PA 18901 Contact: Visit co2ssh.org to check shelter status. Call 866-390-0291 x701 for more information. Upper Bucks County The Advocates for the Homeless of Upper Bucks (AHUB) operates the Code Blue Shelter in Upper Bucks County. They are open when temperatures are projected to be 26 degrees or colder, or 32 degrees or colder with precipitation and/or strong winds. The shelter is open from November 15 through April 15. Shelter doors are open from 8:30PM-11PM. After 11PM, guests must have a police escort. Location: November 2024-April 2025: The Quakertown Masonic Lodge 501 W. Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951 Contact: Visit the Upper Bucks Code Blue Facebook Page. Call the shelter hotline at 267-450-5191. How You Can Help Bucks County Code Blue Shelters When temperatures drop, those experiencing homelessness face life-threatening risks. A warm shelter can mean the difference between life and death on a freezing night. Code Blue shelters provide safety, but they can’t operate without volunteers. Your time and effort can help protect the most vulnerable members of our community. Volunteer Opportunities The Lower Bucks County Shelter urgently needs volunteer drivers and bus attendants to help transport guests to and from the shelter. To volunteer, contact Hilary Walp at Hwalp@ahtn.org. For more details, visit ahtn.org/volunteer-with-ahtn. At the Central Bucks County Shelter, volunteers are needed to help staff the shelter during Code Blue activations. To get involved, contact Megan Williams at 866-390-0291 ext. 0 or email codeblue@co2ssh.org. Visit co2ssh.org/about-volunteering to learn more. The Upper Bucks County Shelter is seeking female overnight volunteers to cover shifts from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM and 2:00 AM to 7:00 AM. If you’re interested, contact Pastor Dave Heckler at prdaveheckler@gmail.com. Spread the Word Share information about Code Blue shelters and volunteer opportunities with your network. Raising awareness helps ensure more people receive shelter and support during cold weather. Follow the shelters’ operating organizations on social media to stay informed and help spread the word: Lower Bucks County Shelter: Advocates for Homeless & Those in Need Central Bucks County Shelter: Coalition to Shelter and Support the Homeless Upper Bucks County Shelter: Upper Bucks Code Blue Stay Safe This Winter In areas like Bucks County, the idea of being homeless can feel foreign. However, many of us are closer to homelessness than we might think. Unexpected events like job loss or medical emergencies can lead to housing instability. A 2019 report revealed that 40% of Americans are just one missed paycheck away from poverty, with 59% of Americans considered at risk of homelessness. Moreover, a 2021 study found that 53% of individuals living in homeless shelters and 40% of unsheltered individuals were employed, either full or part-time, during the year they experienced homelessness. When we talk about homelessness, we’re not talking about strangers wandering the streets. We’re talking about our neighbors, our coworkers, and our family. Winter can be dangerous for those without housing, and any of us could face similar challenges. Code Blue shelters save lives, but they need community support to operate. Volunteer, donate, or spread the word to help keep everyone safe and warm this winter. For immediate shelter assistance, contact the Bucks County Housing Link at 1-800-810-4434 or visit the Housing Link website. Written byNick Madson
As the holiday season unfolds, the spirit of giving has truly shined across Bucks County. Each year, food drives organized by community members and local organizations play a vital role in helping families who face food insecurity. At Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG), we are proud to partner with these compassionate individuals and groups to distribute food to those who need it most. This season, our community stepped up in remarkable ways, reminding us all of the power of collective action. Donations like these ensure that every family can share a meal this Thanksgiving. Here’s how Bucks County came together to lend a helping hand to our most vulnerable neighbors. Spotlight on Bucks County’s Community Efforts We were deeply moved by the multitude of food drives held by so many of our community partners this year. Their efforts touched countless lives this holiday season and we are incredibly grateful for everyone’s contributions! Bucks County Association of Realtors (BCAR) The Bucks County Association of Realtors has been a steadfast supporter of BCHG for years. This season, their members held food drives in realty offices all across the county and collected an astounding number of donations. Their commitment to helping families in need is a shining example of what community leadership looks like. Ann’s Choice Senior Living Ann’s Choice organized a food drive that brought residents and staff together to support BCHG’s mission. From canned goods to boxed staples, their donations will help stock shelves through the busy holiday season and beyond. Their drive demonstrated how small acts of kindness can add up to a big impact! Bike Works Cranksgiving Bike Works hosted its 12th annual Cranksgiving ride, where cyclists combined their passion for riding with a commitment to fighting hunger. This year’s event was an incredible success, resulting in the donation of over 3,000 pounds of food to BCHG’s Doylestown pantry. Riders purchased food items during their route, filling donation bins to ensure local families had access to meals during the holiday season. A huge thank-you goes to Backyard Beans Coffee Company for fueling the riders with pre-ride coffee and to Fred Beans Auto Group for providing the box truck that made transporting all the donations possible. Corporations that support their local community like this are the gold standard! Comprehensive Learning Center For Individuals with Autism (CLC) The CLC community collected an incredible 247 pounds of food during their drive this fall. A special shoutout to Tony, Brandon, and Julia M. for delivering the donations to our Penndel pantry! Rep. Jim Prokopiak State Representative Jim Prokopiak organized a food drive through his office, mobilizing constituents to join the fight against hunger. The drive collected an impressive array of goods, from hearty soups to baking supplies, helping families create full meals during the holidays. His leadership serves as a powerful example of how elected officials can inspire change. Plumstead 9U Baseball Team Plumstead Baseball’s 9-and-under team joined us at the Doylestown food pantry, where they packed Thanksgiving dinner bags for distribution. Their energy and teamwork brought joy to the pantry and highlighted the value of youth engagement in giving back to the community. The Impact on Our Community Thanks to our community’s support, BCHG distributed over 200 turkeys and Thanksgiving dinner bags this holiday season. These contributions ensured that hundreds of families could sit down to a warm, traditional holiday meal. Each donation—whether it came from a cycling event, a student-led initiative, or a youth sports team—helped us provide comfort and hope to those facing food insecurity. Moreover, these efforts not only addressed immediate needs but also brought a sense of joy and dignity to families who might otherwise have gone without. Ultimately, the distribution of turkeys and meal bags was a tangible reminder of what we can achieve when our community comes together. How You Can Help Inspired by these acts of kindness? You can make a difference, too! This Giving Tuesday, join the movement by supporting BCHG’s mission to fight hunger and homelessness in our community. Follow BCHG on social media to stay updated on our ongoing initiatives and opportunities to get involved. Organize a food drive, volunteer, or donate. Your contribution—big or small—makes a meaningful impact on the lives of your neighbors. Gratitude and Looking Ahead We extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible organizations above, as well as the countless individuals who have contributed to our mission this fall. Although we may not realize it, many families in our community could have faced an empty table this Thanksgiving. However, because of your support, hundreds can now gather and enjoy a warm meal this holiday season. As we look ahead, let’s carry this spirit of community and compassion into the new year. Together, we can continue to close the door on hunger and homelessness. Written byNick Madson
Autumn Arrives and Temperatures Fall The trees have adopted hues of crimson and marigold, morning frosts begin to creep in, and a faint scent of bonfires permeates the evening air. It’s unmistakably autumn in Bucks County. While our region’s beauty is breathtaking in the fall, it also poses many challenges for families facing housing instability. This week saw warmer than usual temperatures in the daytime, but sunset still brings a chill that can be harsh for those without proper shelter. At Bucks County Housing Group, we understand how crucial the fall season is for those in need, and we’re committed to stepping up our support to ensure no one is left out in the cold. How Seasonal Changes Affect Vulnerable Families Fall presents unique hardships for individuals experiencing housing insecurity. As temperatures drop, living without reliable shelter becomes not only uncomfortable but dangerous. Families struggling financially may face increased utility costs as they try to keep their homes warm. This can lead to difficult choices—sacrificing rent to pay for heat or cutting back on groceries to cover higher energy bills. For those experiencing homelessness, the cold weather makes finding safe, temporary housing an urgent need. Sleeping in a car, on a friend’s couch, or outdoors becomes even more precarious. Fall also ushers in the back-to-school season, a particularly stressful time for families who lack stable housing. Uncertainty about where they will sleep adds emotional strain, particularly for children trying to succeed in school despite their unstable living conditions. Resources for Enduring Cold Weather Hardships At BCHG, we dedicate ourselves to offering relief during these challenging times. Our programs deliver shelter, long-term housing support, and essential resources to those in need. As the season shifts, the needs of our clients change, and we address these challenges directly. If you or someone you know are facing housing instability this season, the resources below are available to help: BCHG’s Supportive Housing Program Bucks County Housing Group operates several programs to house individuals and families in situations of crisis. Our Supportive Housing Program assists families with the highest barriers to obtaining housing at four different sites, through apartments that are owned or master-leased by us. The Bucks County Housing Link If you are currently homeless or facing a crisis that can result in the loss of your home, The Housing Link can connect you with experienced staff members that can listen to your situation and advise you on what your next step should be. With their wide network of connections with nearly every major organization in the Bucks County area, they will be able to offer you the best help. Bucks County Housing Resource Directory The Bucks County Resource Directory, sometimes referred to as the “pink pages” is a seasonally updated list of services designed to assist children, youth, families, and others struggling with a variety of issues here in our county. If you are looking for a specific organization or a brief summary of the types of groups in Bucks County and a list of them, this is where you will find it. Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) LIHEAP is a federal program that helps low-income households with their heating and cooling expenses. Eligibility is based on income, and the program offers assistance with heating bills, cooling bills, and weatherization services. Lend Your Neighbor a Helping Hand This Fall BCHG relies on community support to continue providing these essential services. This fall, we invite you to join our mission. Donate: Your contributions provide housing assistance, emergency shelter, and meals for people in need. Even small donations make a big difference during tough times. Volunteer: We need compassionate volunteers at our food pantries and housing facilities. Your time can make a lasting impact. Host a Drive: Organize donation drives for warm clothing, blankets, and essentials to help families during the colder months. Spread Awareness: Follow us on social media, share our posts, and encourage others to get involved. Raising awareness is a big part of solving housing instability. As the season progresses, remember those in our community facing housing insecurity. Together, we can make a lasting difference. Explore our programs, volunteer opportunities, and ways to donate on our website and help us make an impact.
Making a Difference at Doylestown’s Food Pantry At Bucks County Housing Group, our mission to end hunger and homelessness would be impossible without the dedication of our incredible volunteers. Among them is Maureen Piccillo, whose passion for serving the community shines through her volunteer work at our Doylestown food pantry. With a heart full of compassion and a commitment to helping neighbors in need, Maureen has become an invaluable part of our team, making a real difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. Her story is one of kindness, generosity, and a shared belief in building a stronger, more supportive community. A Day in the Life at the Food Pantry Like most volunteers at our pantries, Maureen’s responsibilities vary day-to-day. For example, Tuesday could entail inspecting and bagging freshly donated produce, but Wednesday is all about setting up for the evening’s distribution. Though she has many valuable skills, Maureen is most famous for her warmth and personable demeanor when interacting with clients. Incidentally, that’s also one of Maureen’s favorite parts of volunteering. “The most rewarding part is the interaction with the clients. They always give me a smile and a thank you. Not only do they thank us for the food, they thank us just for volunteering,” Maureen says. “Recently, a woman asked if we had any special dessert items because it was her birthday. I was able to give her a beautiful chocolate mousse that a local grocer donated. She was so happy to get it and said it made her day.” Small gestures like this demonstrate the profound impact we can have when our community works together. Understanding the Needs of Our Community Though we may not realize it, there are many families in Bucks County facing food insecurity. In 2022, Feeding America found that 56,670 individuals in our community were considered food insecure. Our Doylestown and Penndel pantries strive to alleviate that insecurity, but there is still more work to be done. Maureen shared some valuable insight gained through her time volunteering. “Living in Bucks County, we can be unaware of the many, many individuals and families that live among us who rely on the pantry to provide even the most basic of necessities. More importantly, we all must realize that anyone can experience a life changing event (economic, personal tragedy, or family situation) that transforms us and puts us in a position where we require help.” Follow Maureen’s Lead Get involved! When asked what she’d say to someone considering volunteering for the first time, her advice was simple and direct. “Do it! It can be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. The volunteers that I work with have been here for years. It’s a testament to their commitment, as well as their love for the work.” We are always in need of volunteers and donations at our pantries, and your contribution will impact the people in our community who need it most. As Helen Keller famously said, “alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Volunteers like Maureen embody this collaborative spirit with the work they do in the name of generosity and mutual aid. If you’d like to join Maureen in our fight against hunger and homelessness in Bucks County, you can sign up to volunteer at a food pantry or donate.
A new school year is upon us, and with it, feelings of excitement and opportunity are in the air. However, for many families, this season is anxiety-inducing. While the cost of school supplies can be overwhelming in its own right, some parents are more concerned about providing their children with basic necessities, like food and housing. Ensuring that children have access to nutritious food and stable housing is essential to their academic success and overall well-being. Food Insecurity and Academic Achievement Hunger is not a quantifiable phenomenon – it’s a feeling. Therefore, researchers instead study food insecurity, which can be measured with hard data from the US Department of Agriculture. If a family is food insecure, it means that the struggle to feed everyone in the household. In 2022, Feeding America found that nearly 12,000 children in Bucks County were experiencing food insecurity. Food insecurity impacts all members of the family, but it is particularly detrimental to children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Children facing food insecurity are at a higher risk of asthma and anemia. These conditions can limit their participation in school activities both in and outside the classroom. In addition, food insecurity also negatively impacts children’s emotional health. According to Feeding America, children experiencing hunger are more likely develop behavioral problems like hyperactivity, anxiety, and aggression. Moreover, food insecurity affects focus, motor skills, and retention, all of which are fundamental to a student’s success. The Role of Stable Housing in Student Success In addition to food security, safe and stable housing plays a crucial role in a child’s ability to thrive. Several challenges encompass housing instability, such as difficulty paying rent, frequent moves, and overcrowding. At the most severe level, housing insecurity manifests as homelessness – something exceptionally traumatizing for a child. A 2018 study found that children who moved more than three times by age 7 had significantly more cognitive issues than their peers from stable homes. Thus, providing children with a secure home environment is vital to their development. Today’s children are growing up in increasingly uncertain times, so we must work to ensure the youngest members of our community can rely on a steady roof over their head each night. A Vicious Cycle The adverse impacts of food and housing insecurity stretch beyond the present moment – they can alter a child’s future. These challenges contribute to the cycle of poverty, as children with subpar academic performance typically have less access to upward socioeconomic mobility. Therefore, it is critical that childhood hunger is eliminated in order to assure that every student has a fair shot at prosperity. How BCHG is Fighting Food Insecurity and Housing Instability Here at BCHG, our Supportive Housing Programs work to provide families in Bucks County with access to attainable housing. Additionally, our food pantries in Doylestown and Penndel provide low-income families with access to the nourishment they need. This summer, with the help of Bucks County Association of Realtors, Ann’s Choice, and the United Way, we held multiple back-to-school drives and equipped students with backpacks full of school supplies. Making a Difference Together With the first day of school rapidly approaching, it is imperative that Bucks County takes action to provide families with healthy, affordable food and steady housing. You can help ensure the future of our community is empowered to reach their full potential by volunteering, donating, or even holding a drive of your own!
Empowering Students this School Year As summer winds down and the school year approaches, many families find themselves preparing for the annual ritual of back-to-school shopping. For some, this means stocking up on notebooks, pencils, backpacks, and new clothes. However, for others, the prospect of purchasing even the most basic school supplies can be daunting. This is where community drives play a crucial role in supporting students and strengthening communities. Providing Help for Families in Need Drives help to bridge the gap for families who may be struggling to make ends meet. The cost of school supplies can quickly add up, especially for families with multiple children. By providing essential items such as notebooks, pencils, calculators, and backpacks, these drives ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed academically. Here at BCHG, supplies go directly toward our housing program and pantry clients. These donated items are critical to ensuring the success of our client children this school year, as these families facing food and housing insecurity often cannot afford school supplies. Having these items provided to them allows them to focus on other needs as they work towards financial stability. Supporting Academic Success The right supplies are fundamental to a student’s ability to engage and succeed in the classroom. A well-equipped student is more likely to participate actively in lessons, complete assignments, and stay organized. These drives help level the playing field, ensuring that every student starts the school year with the same opportunities for success. When students feel prepared and confident, they are more likely to thrive academically, setting the stage for a positive and productive school year. Fostering Community Spirit Drives are more than just a collection of supplies; they are a powerful expression of community spirit and solidarity. When businesses, organizations, and individuals come together to contribute to these drives, they send a message that education is a shared priority. This collective effort fosters a sense of community, reminding families that they are not alone in their challenges and that there is a network of support behind them. Organizations like Bucks County Association of Realtors, Ann’s Choice, and the United Way have been supplying backpacks and other school supplies to BCHG for many years, and we are so grateful for their commitment to our clients and community! Boosting School Attendance and Engagement When students lack the necessary school supplies, they may feel embarrassed or disconnected from their peers, leading to lower attendance rates and disengagement from activities. Drives help to eliminate this barrier, ensuring that all students can start the school year on an equal footing. With the proper supplies in hand, students are more likely to attend school regularly and engage fully in their education, leading to better academic outcomes and a more positive school experience. Conclusion Supply drives are vital in supporting students, families, and communities. They help ensure that all students have the resources they need to succeed, foster a sense of community, and encourage volunteerism and civic engagement. By participating in or hosting a drive, you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and contribute to a brighter future for all.