Importance of Community Gardens As the summer months approach, we want to highlight the importance of community gardens in providing fresh produce to many residents within Bucks County. With around 7.3% of Bucks County’s population food insecure and food donations dwindling in the summer months, community gardens increasingly need to help bridge this gap. Community gardens help to provide fresh produce to low-income households. This allows families to have access to healthier food options to incorporate into their daily diet, creating the opportunity to make nutrient-dense meals and procure necessary vitamins and minerals that might not have been accessible before. Community gardens are essential for creating an opportunity where fresh food is abundant and easily attainable for everyone. Along with helping reduce food insecurity within the county, gardens also help strengthen social connections. Volunteers are able to come together and work towards a good cause while exercising and spending time outside. Working hard to help the garden thrive fosters a strong sense of connection between volunteers and community causes. BCHG’s Commitment to Gardens Because of all the incredible benefits of community gardens, Bucks County Housing Group is proud to support three of their own this summer. With locations at our Doylestown, Penndel, and Robert Morris sites, BCHG strives to create a space that cultivates community connection. We are currently growing tomatoes, squash, and herbs that will soon be ready to harvest. We then distribute this produce to our food pantries and residents to enjoy! Our gardens are essential in helping us accomplish our mission to close the door on hunger and homelessness. By providing fresh food to community members, especially in the summer when food donations tend to run low, our gardens allow us to alleviate the difficulties caused by food insecurity and provide community support for low-income households within Bucks County. We always appreciate our volunteers who help make this mission possible. If you are interested in volunteering at any of our garden or pantry sites email amcgill@bchg.org! Also, you can be a part of the BCHG community by following along! Instagram: @buckscountyhousinggroupFacebook: Bucks County Housing GroupTwitter: @housing4all Written By: Nina Harris
Introduction Happy Pride! June is Pride Month, dedicated to celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community and honoring the progress made towards equality and acceptance. Pride originated from the Stonewall riots of June 1969. These were spontaneous demonstrations by LGBTQIA+ community members in response to a police raid at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. These riots marked a turning point in the LGBTQIA+ rights movement. They galvanized activism and led to the formation of numerous advocacy groups. Over the decades, Pride Month has grown into an international celebration. It now includes parades, festivals, and events promoting LGBTQIA+ visibility and rights. This month also reminds us of the ongoing struggle for LGBTQIA+ rights. It highlights the importance of solidarity and visibility. Amidst the celebrations, it’s crucial to reflect on the persistent challenges faced by the queer community. Disproportionate rates of hunger and homelessness are key issues. These issues underscore the broader socioeconomic disparities that continue to affect LGBTQIA+ individuals, making it essential to address and support their needs comprehensively. The Issue, at a glance Despite strides in LGBTQIA+ rights, significant disparities persist in essential areas like food and housing security. According to a 2021 study by the Human Rights Campaign, LGBTQIA+ individuals are twice as likely to experience homelessness compared to their heterosexual, cisgender counterparts. A 2020 study from the Williams Institute supports this, finding that 17% of sexual minority adults report lifetime homelessness, and less than 50% of LGBTQIA+ adults own homes compared to 70% of heterosexual, cisgender adults Furthermore, disparities in homeownership are pronounced among LGBTQIA+ racial minorities and transgender individuals. LGBTQIA+ youth are particularly vulnerable; up to 40% of homeless youth identifying as LGBTQIA+. This can stem for a lack of support at home and a refusal to house a member of the LGBTQ+ community. However, discrimination exists in the housing market as well. Refusal to rent or sell to same-sex couples, realtors refusing to show houses to transgender individuals, and rejections same-sex partners in leases all occur. These discriminatory practices exacerbate housing insecurity within the LGBTQIA+ community. Similarly, food insecurity is prevalent among LGBTQIA+ individuals. The fact that LGBTQ+ individuals are twice as likely to receive SNAP benefits reflects this disparity. A 2021 revealed 13% of LGBTQIA+ adults report insufficient food at home, almost double non-LGBTQIA+ adults. Additionally, a 2019 study by the Oregon Food Bank revealed that 27% of LGBTQIA+ individuals reported insufficient funds for food within the past year. This is 10% higher compared to 17% of their straight or cisgender counterparts. Additionally, over 22% of LGBTQIA+ adults live in poverty, making them twice as likely as the general population to experience hunger. Economic challenges, including workplace discrimination, contribute to this disparity. Nearly 50% of LGBTQ+ individuals remain closeted at work out of fear of negative treatment or professional repercussions. Despite these challenges, LGBTQIA+ individuals are less likely to seek assistance from food banks due to fear of rejection or discrimination. Approximately 14% avoid faith-based food pantries, further highlighting the barriers faced by the community in accessing essential resources. Although the above information merely grazes the surface of the issue, we hope it’s sufficient to illuminate the necessity of dialogue around it. Our Mission Unfortunately, accessing housing support and food pantries is not always free from discrimination. The reality that many have faced rejection or prejudice when seeking assistance roots this apprehension. With that in mind, Bucks County Housing Group is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment, offering services without discrimination based on gender, sexual identity, or any other identity features. Our goal is that everyone can access the help they need, such as housing initiatives—supportive housing, rapid rehousing, and housing counseling—and food programs — pantries, mobile markets, and community gardens — without fear of bias or exclusion. Join us in creating a community where everyone feels safe and supported. Help ensure that all can access the resources they need to thrive. Volunteer Donate Hold A Drive Share our mission by following along!Instagram: @buckscountyhousinggroupFacebook: Bucks County Housing GroupTwitter: @housing4all Written By: Dominic DiFrancesco
As we commemorate Black History Month, it’s crucial to reflect not only on the achievements and contributions of Black individuals, but also on the systemic challenges they continue to face. In Bucks County, there exists a stark reality: disparities in access to adequate food and housing disproportionately affect the Black community. At Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG), we believe it’s imperative to confront these issues head-on and work toward equitable solutions. Disparate Impacts on the Black Community Food insecurity is a pressing concern for many Black households in Bucks County. According to Feeding America, 15% of Bucks County’s food-insecure population is Black. 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. Similarly, housing insecurity remains a significant challenge for the Black community in Bucks County. Discriminatory practices, historical disinvestment, and economic barriers have perpetuated housing disparities, resulting in higher rates of homelessness among Black residents. (National Alliance to End Homelessness) As an organization dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions, BCHG is committed to expanding access to safe and stable housing for all members of our community. Through affordable housing developments, rental assistance programs, and advocacy efforts, we strive to address the root causes of housing instability and create pathways to homeownership for marginalized populations. Our Commitment In commemorating Black History Month, we must not only celebrate the resilience and contributions of Black individuals but also acknowledge and dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequities in our society. At BCHG, we are committed to fostering a community where everyone has access to nutritious food, safe housing, and opportunities for economic advancement. By working together with community partners and stakeholders, we can build a more just and inclusive Bucks County where every individual, regardless of race or background, can thrive. This Black History Month, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of equity and justice for all.
How It Will Impact Pennsylvanians, And What You Can Do About It Introduction: If Congress fails to act by January 19, WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) will face a budget shortfall that could result in 2 million eligible families nationwide being turned away from the program. (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities) As an organization dedicated to providing essential services to vulnerable communities, BCHG is deeply concerned about the potential ramifications of the budget shortfall on the individuals and families utilizing our food program. The WIC Program and The Budget Shortfall: WIC is a crucial federal assistance program that provides nutrition education, healthy food, and support to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. (USDA) Currently, the WIC program serves about half of all infants born in the United States. Unfortunately, the budget that Congress is currently considering will fund the program at a $1 billion shortfall. The shortfall will cost the same amount as funding six months of benefits to all pregnant women and infants participating in WIC. (USDA) Individual states will likely create waitlists to join the program as a result of the shortfall, and several eligible families will be turned away from receiving the assistance they need. What this Means for Pennsylvania: The WIC budget shortfall is projected to impact 51,000 Pennsylvanians by September 2024. (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities) To avoid such a stark impact, the USDA may choose to reallocate funding from their other programs toward WIC, but there is no guarantee that this will be feasible. There will likely also be a long-lasting impact on the perception of the WIC program. Turning eligible participants away due to inadequate funding will likely discourage people from applying in the future. Impact on Our Food Pantries: Our pantries and mobile markets are vital resources for those in need, offering a safe and reliable source of food in times of economic hardship. The potential increase in demand due to the WIC budget shortfall will place additional strain on these essential services. We anticipate welcoming new families to our pantries and mobile markets as a result of the shortfall. Demand for produce, milk, eggs, baby formula, and diapers will also likely increase. Finally, we anticipate an increase in the need for families who are already utilizing our programs. The level of support WIC will provide to those already on their programs is uncertain, so their need for food from our programs may increase. How You Can Help: Contact Your Representatives:Use the form here to contact your elected representatives. Be an advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. Spread the Word:Share this blog, our website, and our social media with your network to help spread awareness about the WIC budget shortfall. as well as the resources that BCHG provides to combat food and housing security. Donate to BCHG:Monetary support and food donations make a significant difference in our ability to meet increased demand at our food pantries. Support our mission by donating to our cause to help us prepare for the influx of patrons at our pantries. Volunteer Your Time:Offer your time and skills to assist at BCHG’s food pantries or other programs. Volunteering is a hands-on way to contribute to the community and support vulnerable individuals and families. Organize Food Drives:Coordinate food drives with local businesses, schools, and community groups. Collecting non-perishable items can help ensure that our food pantries remain well-stocked to meet the growing demand. Conclusion: The WIC budget shortfall is a challenge that will require collective action and community support. By raising awareness, advocating for policy change, and contributing to organizations like ours, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those facing food insecurity. Together, let’s ensure that every individual has access to the nutrition and support they need for a healthy future. Written By: Amanda McGill
Reflecting on 2023 and Looking Ahead to the New Year Welcome to BCHG‘s 2023 Wrapped: Our Year in Review! As we bid farewell to another eventful year, it’s time to reflect on the milestones, achievements, challenges, and moments that defined the journey for Bucks County Housing Group over the past twelve months. From program expansion, partnerships new and old, and community engagement, join us as we delve into the highlights and pivotal events that shaped our path in 2023. Embrace the nostalgia and anticipation as we unwrap the story of our year—a narrative woven with progress, resilience, and the collective efforts of our team and supporters. Scroll through the slideshow below to check out some of our favorite moments from 2023: We are excited about the new opportunities, challenges, and chances to grow coming in 2024. Thank you for your support and partnership with BCHG. Our work is only possible because of your dedication to our mission. We can’t wait to continue to close the door on hunger and homelessness with you in the new year. Want more of our 2023 Wrapped? Check out the video below: BCHG 2023 Wrapped by Amanda McGill
A Guide to Making a Difference Introduction: Giving Tuesday is a global day of charitable giving that encourages people to give back to their communities and support causes they are passionate about. Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) is continuing our work to close the door on hunger and homelessness, and we hope you’ll consider supporting us this Giving Tuesday. We are dedicated to addressing the challenges of food and housing insecurity, and providing affordable housing solutions, and rely on community support to carry out our mission. This Giving Tuesday, consider one of these ways to contribute to help give back to our community and support BCHG: Monetary Donations:One of the most direct ways to support BCHG is through monetary donations. Your financial contributions can go a long way in helping us provide shelter, food, and essential services to individuals and families facing homelessness. Visit our Giving Tuesday page to make a secure online donation, donate via Paypal, or fill out this form to set up a recurring donation to provide ongoing support. You can also support us by buying our merchandise! Fundraising Campaigns:Consider organizing a fundraising campaign within your community or workplace to raise awareness and funds for BCHG. You could host a neighborhood event, set up crowdfunding pages, or collaborate with local businesses to create donation drives. Get creative and involve others in the process to maximize the impact of your fundraising efforts. Need our support? Email info@bchg.org! Volunteer Your Time:If you have the time and skills to spare, consider volunteering with BCHG. We often need volunteers for various tasks, such as assisting with food distribution, helping in our community gardens, or providing support at our office. Volunteering is a hands-on way to make a direct impact and connect with the community you’re helping. To get started, visit our volunteer page. In-Kind Donations:We welcome in-kind donations of essential items. This could include non-perishable food items, clothing, hygiene products, and household supplies. You can view our current list of needed food items here, and check out our Amazon Wishlist for the most up-to-date needs of our housing program units and families. Spread the Word:Help amplify our mission by spreading the word on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Share our posts, upcoming events, and initiatives on your page or story. Encourage your friends, family, and followers to get involved and support us on Giving Tuesday! Use the hashtags #GivingTuesday, #GT2023, and #GivingTuesday2023 to increase the visibility of your posts and inspire others to join the cause. Corporate Sponsorship:If you represent a business, explore the possibility of corporate sponsorship for BCHG. This can involve financial support, in-kind donations, or even collaboration on community initiatives. Corporate partnerships can significantly boost our resources and enable us to expand our impact. If you’re interested in becoming a corporate partner, email amcgill@bchg.org for more information. Conclusion: This Giving Tuesday, make a meaningful contribution to Bucks County Housing Group and play a role in addressing homelessness and housing challenges in your community. Whether through financial support, volunteerism, or spreading awareness, your efforts can make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Join the movement and be a part of positive change in Bucks County.
Did you know October is National Book Month? As if we needed another reason to spend these autumn days cozied up in front of a fireplace with a cup of coffee and a good book! If you’re searching for a new read, check out our team’s latest recommendations for some moving and motivating stories about home, hunger, and hope. BCHG Recommends: No Way Home: The Crisis of Homelessness and How to Fix It with Intelligence and Humanity by Christopher F. Rufo, Wayne H. Winegarden, Joseph Tartakovsky, and Kerry Jackson – “This book examines the causes of homelessness with a focus on unaffordable housing, poverty, mental illness, substance addiction, and legal reform.” Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer is a collection of stories which examine the way humans interact with the natural world. The Poverty Paradox by Mark Robert Rank delves into why the wealthiest country in the world (the United States) also has the highest rate of poverty among industrialized countries and offers solutions on what we can do about it. Changing the Face of Hunger by Tony Hall – “Hall’s book describes his humanitarian efforts in Ethiopia, where he saw world hunger up close, and his attempts to bring the problem to the attention of those in Washington, advocating for those who have no voice in global politics.” Cooking with Scraps by Lindsay-Jean Hard provides easy-to-follow recipes using scraps most of us have in our kitchens, offering insight into ways to cook more with less. We encourage you to explore the offerings at your local Bucks County Free Library – their website provides up-to-date information on their current stock and availability, allowing you to easily embark on a reading adventure this National Book Month. So, as the autumn leaves fall and the air turns crisper, let these books be your companions, guiding you through stories that inspire, provoke thought, and perhaps even change the way you view the world. Spread the word(s): Read one of these books, or find another book that inspires you to fight against hunger and homelessness? Share a photo on Instagram and tag us for a chance to be featured on our page! Don’t forget to follow us @BucksCountyHousingGroup. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bucks County Housing Group (@buckscountyhousinggroup) Happy reading! BCHG Homepage Written By: Hannah Borish
How Your Support Transforms Lives at Bucks County Housing Group At Bucks County Housing Group, we’re excited to share with you the incredible impact of your generous donations. Your support has been pivotal in changing lives, and we want to give you a glimpse of how we put your donations to work and how they are making a tangible difference in our community. 1. Filling Plates and Hearts: The Food Program Your support has ensured that no one in our community goes to bed hungry. With your help, we’ve been able to purchase nutritious food to sustain our food program, providing a lifeline for individuals and families facing food insecurity. Your generosity goes beyond filling plates; it fills hearts with hope. We’re able to leverage your donations to fill our pantries with healthy produce, pantry staples, and allergen-friendly options. 2. Turning Houses into Homes: Essential Household Supplies Imagine starting anew with nothing but the clothes on your back. Your donations have made it possible for us to provide clients in our housing program with essential household supplies to get them started as they stabilize. From toiletries to bedding and kitchenware, your contributions empower individuals and families to transform their living situations, turning houses into comfortable homes. Additionally, our Apartment Partners program provides essential furniture and unforeseen expense help to our client families. 3. Play and Laughter for Children: A New Playset and More Our youngest clients have reason to smile, thanks to your donations at work. We installed a new playset for children within our housing program thanks to a generous fundraiser from our community, bringing joy and laughter to their lives. This small act has had a significant impact, offering a sense of normalcy during challenging times. In addition, your support has provided supplies for our community building program to host holiday parties, homework help, and community days to aid in bringing a sense of camaraderie and support among our housing clients. 4. Cultivating Hope through Community Gardens Gardens are places of growth, not just for plants but for people too. Your support has allowed us to provide seeds and materials for our community gardens, enabling clients to cultivate fresh produce and gain valuable skills. Because of your help, our gardens nourish both bodies and spirits while fostering a sense of community and empowerment. 5. Beyond the Examples: A Broader Impact Your support extends far beyond the specific examples mentioned. Because of your support, we have been able to provide shelter, offer case management services, and host educational workshops. These services are instrumental in helping our clients find stable housing, overcome challenges, and work toward self-sufficiency. The Ripple Effect: How Your Donations Transform Lives The impact of your generosity goes beyond immediate assistance; we put your donations to work to make lasting changes in Bucks County and our clients’ lives. Clients who receive support during difficult times are better equipped to tackle challenges and work towards self-sufficiency. Your contributions fill them with hope and empowerment, impacting every aspect of their lives and creating a brighter future for them and their families. In closing, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering commitment to our mission. Your support, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or advocacy, is truly making a difference. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more vibrant community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. As we continue this journey of transformation, we look forward to the positive changes your kindness and compassion will bring. Thank you for being a vital part of this life-changing work.
Introduction Have you been wondering “What are volunteer opportunities near me?” or “How can I get involved in my community?” Look no further! Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) is working steadfastly to close the door on hunger and homelessness. Our mission depends on the invaluable contributions and support from individuals like you, who want to make a difference in their community. In this blog, we will shed light on how you can get involved with BCHG and play a pivotal role in turning our shared vision into reality. Understanding BCHG Before embarking on your journey of involvement, we encourage you to delve into the heart of Bucks County Housing Group. Explore our website, familiarize yourself with the needs in our area, peruse our social media, and acquaint yourself with our diverse range of services. This foundational knowledge will empower you to engage effectively and align with our vision. Volunteer Opportunities BCHG operates on the dedication and passion of volunteers who are the backbone of our organization. Volunteering offers an opportunity to directly contribute to our mission. Here are some of the volunteer opportunities you can explore: a. Food Pantries: Lend your time and compassion to our food pantries, where you can provide crucial support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. b. Community Gardens: Make a tangible impact by volunteering at one of our community garden locations, helping individuals access and grow fresh produce. c. Administrative Assistance: Offer your skills in areas like data entry or office management to help facilitate the smooth operation of BCHG. d. Other Opportunities: We are always looking for ways that community members can contribute their skillsets to our mission. If you have an idea for a volunteer partnership, let us know! Financial Contributions If your schedule doesn’t permit regular volunteering, we invite you to consider making a financial contribution. Your donation significantly supports BCHG’s programs and services. We offer various giving options, including one-time donations, monthly contributions, and support for specific fundraising campaigns. Advocacy Amplify your voice in support of food security and housing issues in Bucks County. Advocate for initiatives that address the root causes of homelessness and endorse affordable housing solutions. Attend community meetings and become a voice for change in Bucks County. Organize a Fundraiser or Drive Harness your community spirit by organizing a fundraiser or donation drive within your network. Events like food drives, cleaning supply drives, and group fundraising can raise both awareness and resources for BCHG, making a considerable difference. Questions about holding a drive? Email amcgill@bchg.org. Spread the Word Help BCHG’s mission reach new heights by promoting it on social media, within your local community, and among friends and family. Sharing our success stories, events, and volunteer opportunities can draw more support and volunteers to our cause. Conclusion Bucks County Housing Group stands as a beacon of hope in addressing hunger and homelessness in Bucks County. Your involvement through volunteering, donations, advocacy, or event organization is invaluable to our mission. Every action, no matter how small, creates a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of those in need. Join us today and be a part of the solution with BCHG, for together, we create a stronger and more compassionate community. Written by: Amanda McGill
How You Can Help Fight Hunger in Bucks County Summer is here, and while it brings excitement for many, it also poses challenges for our food pantries. This season can be particularly tough as our stock levels tend to run low due to difficulties in securing food donations. While the demand for food assistance intensifies during these months, the support typically garnered during holidays and through school-drive initiatives diminishes. Compounded by the increasing costs of food and reductions in emergency SNAP benefits, the rising client need for food pantry services presents a challenge. We have observed a steady and significant increase in the number of clients seeking assistance at our food pantries. In the month of May alone, over 550 unique households were served, providing vital support to 1,469 individuals a staggering 4,199 times. This figure has only grown in the month of June and is expected to rise as we enter July. SNAP benefits, also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, is a federal assistance program in the United States. It provides eligible individuals and families with funds to purchase nutritious food. The program aims to alleviate food insecurity and improve access to healthy meals. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pennsylvania provided temporary additional SNAP payments to recipients. These additional funds, typically averaging $95 or more, were crucial in supporting households facing food insecurity and mitigating the pandemic’s impact on vulnerable populations. However, in February, these extra benefits ended, resulting in decreased food assistance for many. Furthering the struggle, food prices continue to rise due to factors including international inflation, labor costs, supply chain issues, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts a projected increase of 4.1% in food production costs for the year 2023. These food prices not only impact consumers, but also our food program’s ability to purchase food. Bucks County Housing Group has witnessed a rise in clients struggling with homelessness or housing insecurity. The issue of homelessness almost always intersects with food insecurity, amplifying the urgency to provide consistent and reliable access to nourishing food. The combination of these factors has created a significant gap that BCHG strives to bridge. We work hard to ensure that vulnerable individuals and families have access to essential sustenance. Our comprehensive approach to food security services ensures the issue of food access is addressed at every stage. These challenges may seem overwhelming, but this is where your support really makes a difference! By increasing awareness of the ongoing need for food donations during the summer months, individuals, local businesses, and community organizations play a crucial role in ensuring that no one goes hungry. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact in the lives of those struggling with food insecurity and homelessness. There are many ways to help: Food Donations: Please consider donating either perishable or non-perishable food items. These contributions directly support our clients. Donations can be dropped off at our Penndel Pantry Tuesdays 10:00am – 12:00pm and our Doylestown Pantry Wednesday 1:30 – 3:30pm. To coordinate other donation times or food drives, please email amcgill@bchg.org. Financial Contributions: The best way to support our pantries currently is with monetary donations or gift cards to local grocery stores. These donations allow BCHG to purchase fresh produce, dairy products, and other perishable items, ensuring a balanced and nutritious food supply for our food pantries. Even a small contribution can go a long way in making a positive impact. Volunteer Support: Make a difference in your community by volunteering at BCHG’s food pantries or organizing food drives. Your time and skills can have a significant impact, helping to collect and distribute food to those in need. Spread the Word: Share the mission of BCHG through social media, community newsletters, local events, or just tell a friend about us! Raising awareness is key to expanding our impact and reaching more individuals and families in need. We are facing a decline in food donations and an increase in demand at our food pantries. This presents a pressing challenge, but one we are ready to face. We are dedicated to providing food assistance to all community members who turn to our pantries. To reach that goal, we need your help. Please consider supporting us and our mission to close the door on hunger in Bucks County! Share our mission by following along! Instagram: @buckscountyhousinggroup Facebook: Bucks County Housing Group Twitter: @housing4all LinkedIn: Bucks County Housing Group Written By: Dominic DiFrancesco