SNAP Funding Halted in Bucks County as Food Pantries Brace for Shortages

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.

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 by

Nick 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

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 by

Nick 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 by

Nick 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.

William and Daisy Myers with their three children in their Levittown home.

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 by

Nick Madson

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.

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: @buckscountyhousinggroup
Facebook: Bucks County Housing Group
Twitter: @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: @buckscountyhousinggroup
Facebook: Bucks County Housing Group
Twitter: @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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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