A Time for Community Support Across Pennsylvania, millions of families are facing an uncertain November. Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will not issue benefits this month. Nearly two million Pennsylvanians rely on this critical program, including thousands of households in Bucks County. For families already living close to the edge, the pause in benefits means more than an empty fridge. SNAP allows families to use their limited income for essentials like soap, toilet paper, toothpaste, and diapers. Without those funds, many must choose between feeding their families or buying basic necessities. At the same time, local food banks are under immense strain. Philabundance, one of the largest food distribution partners in our region, has lost millions in funding this year. As the shutdown stretches on, food pantries like those run by Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) are feeling the ripple effects. BCHG has already seen a sharp increase in pantry visits this week, with many families coming through our doors for the first time. Our mission has always been to end food insecurity in Bucks County. That commitment remains as strong as ever, but we cannot meet this growing need without community support. Understanding What’s Happening SNAP provides food-purchasing assistance for low-income households. The program is federally funded and administered through Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services (DHS). Because of the ongoing shutdown, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has halted funding for SNAP, preventing states from issuing benefits in November. This interruption affects millions across the country. In Pennsylvania alone, DHS has confirmed that no benefits will be released until Congress restores funding. That means nearly two million Pennsylvanians will go without critical food support. This kind of disruption has a cascading effect. When food benefits stop, families shift their spending toward groceries and away from other essentials. Bills go unpaid, savings disappear, and health declines. The emotional toll can be just as severe as the financial one. It is important to remember that SNAP is not only a safety net for families. It is also a driver of local economic growth. Studies by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food Research and Action Center show that every dollar of SNAP benefits generates between $1.50 and $1.80 in economic activity, especially during periods of economic instability. When families use their benefits at neighborhood grocery stores and farmers markets, that money supports local jobs, small businesses, and community food systems. In Bucks County, the impact extends beyond individual households. Every benefit dollar spent helps keep food on shelves, paychecks flowing, and local economies stable. When benefits stop, the entire community feels the loss. What This Means for Bucks County BCHG operates community food pantries in Doylestown and Penndel that serve residents throughout Bucks County. In the past week, we have already seen an immediate rise in visitors seeking help. Based on statewide trends, we anticipate this increase to continue. Our shelves are turning over faster than we can restock them, and the need for personal care items has grown dramatically. These challenges come at a time when our regional supply network is already stretched thin. Recent funding losses have reduced the flow of food to local pantries, leaving organizations like BCHG to bridge the gap with limited resources. We remain steadfast in our mission to end hunger and homelessness in Bucks County, but we cannot meet this moment alone. We need the collective strength of our community to ensure that every neighbor has access to food and dignity. What to Do If You Are Affected If your household relies on SNAP, there are steps you can take right now. Check your EBT card to see if you have unspent funds from previous months. Stay connected with DHS for updates and renewal requirements to protect future eligibility. Reach out for help early. Call 2-1-1 or visit pa211.org for local food resources. Visit BCHG’s pantries in Doylestown and Penndel for food, hygiene products, and household essentials. Ask about additional support. Our staff can connect you with programs and resources to support you amid this uncertainty. You are not alone. Our team is here to help you navigate this challenging time and find stability. How You Can Help This crisis is not just a policy issue. It is a community moment that calls on all of us to act. Donate to BCHG. Every dollar helps us purchase food and essential supplies for families in need. Host a food drive with your coworkers, congregation, or community group. Volunteer at one of our pantries to sort donations, prepare bags, or distribute food to our neighbors. Share this information. Someone you know may be struggling quietly and not know where to turn. Advocate for change. Contact your elected officials and urge them to protect SNAP and hunger-relief funding. Every action matters. Together, we can make sure that no one in Bucks County has to face hunger alone. Standing Strong Together BCHG has always believed in the power of community. When one neighbor struggles, others step forward. That belief has guided our work for nearly five decades and continues to shape how we respond today. This is a difficult moment for many, but it is also an opportunity for compassion. Our team, volunteers, and supporters are already mobilizing to meet this challenge head-on. With your help, we can continue to provide food, support, and hope to every household that needs it. Written byNick Madson
What Does It Take to be a Non-Profit Intern? The process of turning a garden over from winter’s jungle to the summer’s growing season is an arduous one. The first challenge is simply the chaos of it all: heaps of weeds waiting to be plucked, soil drained of nutrients, and leftover structures from last season. On top of clearing that away, you must also think ahead to crop spacing, which plants will thrive together, and how the sunlight will fall on your garden. All of this has to be done under a pressing time limit. If things aren’t planted soon enough, they won’t mature in time for their fruits to ripen in the thick summer heat. When I started my time as a gardening intern at Bucks County Housing Group, there was a lot to be done. By the time I started, the calendar was already turning over to June. And when I looked at the overgrown landscape before me, I almost felt overwhelmed. But luckily, gardening is just taking simple principles and putting them into practice. I weeded every bed, turning them into perfectly manicured plots. I selected transplants, getting half of them for free from our community partner, Rolling Harvest Food Rescue (Thanks Elyse!). Also, I researched to find the best free compost in the area, which is located on Ferry Road in Doylestown at the Peace Valley Equestrian Center, just so you know. But I quickly learned that it wasn’t enough to be a good gardener this summer. I also needed to learn how to be a good non-profit intern. How to Succeed as a Non-Profit Intern Being a non-profit intern is a task that requires a lot of different skills. First, and undoubtably paramount, you must be committed to the cause. It hasn’t been easy in non-profit recently, that’s no secret. I spent my mornings this summer planting, fertilizing, and watering, but I spent my evenings watching the news that seemed to be destroying everything that me and everyone around Bucks County has been building for decades. But this just added fuel to my fire to wake up early the next day and be the best intern I could. Next, your biggest asset is to be resourceful. Non-profit work is all about how to efficiently manage resources, and being able to do more with less is a crucial skill. Being resourceful means you must regularly take stock of what you have at your disposal, how much of that resource you will use, and how you can fill that gap, ideally at as low-cost as possible. This could mean asking community partners or volunteers for their assistance in closing these gaps, or looking online for items listed for free. Another strategy is to use things in an inventive way, such as turning sticks into trellises for vining plants. Collaboration is Key Another huge skill to have is connections. Non-profits thrive off of our relationships. The more contacts you have, the more efficiently each non-profit can work together, all overlapping and helping each other reach their goals. Get help from others, but also don’t be afraid to donate your time to their causes as well. Learn from people who have been in the industry for a long time and let them fill you with their real-world, lived experience. Finally, don’t be afraid to implement new ideas. This summer, I submitted a proposal to add a new compost system to our garden. I also designed a weekly newsletter that now goes out to volunteers. Because of these ideas, more interest has been generated in the garden, so I can begin to host some gardening workshops for everyone to enjoy! These ideas become improvements for everyone so never be afraid to use a creative solution or propose a new idea. Observations and Impact of the Community Garden Now, the garden is absolutely gorgeous and overflowing with life. Every time I watch a buzzing bee land gracefully on a flower, I feel content that I have cultivated a space where these creatures can feel safe. Every time I slowly watch a flower bloom, I feel like I’m bringing beauty to the tenants who live in the building next to my garden. Each fruit I pick, ripe off the vine, I rejoice in the act of creation. However, it wasn’t just me who created this beautiful space. Of course, Elyse Yerrapathruni from Rolling Harvest really helped kick off our season by donating extra transplants, but so many other people also helped me on my journey. Brian Marcy, who runs the Doylestown pantry, and his wife Alice, have both been invaluable to me. They have acted as my sounding board for whacky ideas and given me the guidance needed to go forward. Every volunteer has also helped, giving me advice along the way. They gave me ideas for my weekly newsletter and even pointed out new places to get mulch. I have volunteers and residents who come up to me regularly now, gushing at how beautiful it all looks. Just the other day, a woman came up to me while I was planting flowers. She said, “it’s hard not to be excited about the garden when it just looks so beautiful!” And I completely agree. It’s thanks to the support of everyone reading this article that the garden was able to truly flourish this summer. Your involvement made this season possible. It was your generous donations, personally donated time, or simply reading this blog that gave meaning to this entire experience. So, thank you. Truly. Written by Zoey Speaker
At Bucks County Housing Group, our mission is to close the door on hunger and homelessness — but what happens after that door is closed? What transforms a housing unit into a true home? For the families at our Robert Morris community, the answer is simple: connection, celebration, and the tireless efforts of one remarkable woman. Moments That Matter: Recent Highlights from Robert Morris Spring has been full of joyful, neighborly moments for families living at our Robert Morris supportive housing site. In April, the courtyard buzzed with excitement during our annual Easter Egg Hunt. La’Kisha Gray, our Community Builder, organized the event from start to finish — hiding hundreds of eggs, decorating the space, and setting up crafts and treats that brought smiles to children and parents alike. In May, families gathered again for a heartfelt Mother’s Day celebration. Children were invited to make handmade gifts and cards, turning simple art supplies into expressions of love. These moments of creativity, laughter, and togetherness reflect the heart of what BCHG stands for: building up families so they can build their futures. Another crowd favorite in the community has been “drive-in” movie night. La’Kisha transforms the courtyard into an outdoor theater, complete with snacks, blankets, and projector magic. For kids who may never have experienced a movie night under the stars, it’s not just entertainment — it’s a foundational family memory. Celebrating Traditions: A Look Back at Seasonal Favorites The spirit of community at Robert Morris didn’t start this spring. It’s been growing stronger through every season, thanks to the thoughtful programming led by La’Kisha. Last October, she brought spooky fun to the neighborhood with a Halloween movie night: families gathered in costume to watch kid-friendly films and enjoy fall treats. In December, the entire property was aglow with the creativity of our first-ever Holiday Door Decorating Contest. Families competed in good fun, transforming their front doors with lights, wreaths, and festive flair. The event was such a success that it was expanded to include all of BCHG’s SHP communities this past year, proving that a good idea — and a little holiday spirit — can go a long way. Behind the Scenes: The Magic of La’Kisha Gray These events don’t happen by chance. They happen because La’Kisha makes them happen. As the Community Builder at Robert Morris, La’Kisha plans every detail — decorations, supplies, food, activities, and more. She doesn’t just organize; she creates. Whether it’s crafting personalized gift bags or designing a new holiday tradition, La’Kisha brings heart, warmth, and a deep understanding of what our families need most: to feel seen, supported, and part of something bigger. But her work goes beyond logistics. La’Kisha is a consistent, caring presence in the lives of the residents. She shows up. She listens. She lifts others up. In doing so, she embodies what it means to be a true community builder. Why Community Building Matters Now More Than Ever The importance of community building at Robert Morris is even more urgent in light of recent proposed federal budget cuts. The current administration proposes eliminating the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, which supports afterschool and summer programs for over 32,000 Pennsylvania students. These cuts could leave working families with fewer support systems and children with fewer safe, enriching environments. While the Shapiro-Davis Administration is proposing a $10 million increase to Pennsylvania’s BOOST afterschool initiative, local programs like the one at Robert Morris are essential to filling in the gaps. When we invest in community-building, we strengthen the safety net, ensuring families have the support they need to stay resilient. Safe, stable housing is essential — but housing alone isn’t enough to help families thrive. Community programming like what La’Kisha provides helps residents feel connected, not just to services or case managers, but to each other. These connections reduce isolation, increase confidence, and create stronger support systems. For parents, this might mean a neighbor they trust to help in a pinch. For children, it’s the joy of celebration, play, and structure. For the whole community, it means greater resilience in the face of life’s challenges. At BCHG, we believe that community building is foundational to ending housing insecurity. Because when people feel like they belong, they’re more likely to stay housed, stay hopeful, and take steps toward long-term independence. How You Can Support Community Building at BCHG You don’t have to be a full-time Community Builder to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors. There are many ways to support La’Kisha’s work and the families at Robert Morris: Volunteer to host or sponsor a family event – Whether you’re a local business, faith group, or just someone who loves throwing parties, we’d love to collaborate with you to bring joy to our community. Shop our SHP Amazon Wishlist – Help supply our residents with essentials like cleaning supplies, hygiene items, and more. These donations ease financial burdens and allow families to focus on growth. Donate directly to BCHG – Your contributions fuel every aspect of our mission, including community-building events like the ones you’ve read about here. La’Kisha may be the spark, but it takes all of us to keep the flame of community alive. Together, we can ensure that every family has more than just a place to live — they have a place to belong. Written ByNick Madson
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
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.