How Chosen 300’s Outreach Program is Battling Federal Budget Cuts Impacting Vital Food Services

PHILADELPHIA – Budget cuts are putting critical food service programs like Chosen 300 at risk. This nonprofit provides meals for the homeless and families facing food insecurity, especially those affected by recent cuts to food assistance programs like SNAP.

Recently, Chosen 300 reported a staggering $41,000 drop in its annual budget. Their latest funding award was just $9,000—down from $60,000 two years ago, marking an 85% reduction. This dramatic cut has left many wondering how services will continue.

For individuals like Thomasina Glennon, Chosen 300 is a lifeline. She and her three children, who are currently homeless and living in a shelter, often rely on meals from the organization. “This place has given me so much hope,” she says. “Sometimes the food is not always the greatest, but they invite us to community events, and that means a lot to us.”

Brian Jenkins, the executive director of Chosen 300, voiced his concern about the future. “We expected cuts, but not at this scale,” he remarked. The funding comes from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, part of FEMA, but this year’s letter indicated a temporary pause in financial assistance due to federal mandates.

Jenkins also noted that delays in receiving funds could further jeopardize services. “We still haven’t received the $9,000,” he said. “That’s crucial for our operations.” All food programs, including grocery distributions for struggling families, are now at risk.

According to recent statistics, nearly 40 million Americans face food insecurity, a situation worsened by rising costs and diminishing support programs. As organizations like Chosen 300 battle funding shortages, communities are called to step up. Penn Medicine recently funded one of Chosen 300’s dinner services, highlighting collaborative efforts to support local initiatives in tough times.

“We need to be good neighbors, regardless of the political climate,” said Laura Kim from Penn Medicine, emphasizing the importance of community partnership.

As Chosen 300 faces challenging times, Jenkins remains hopeful. Community donations and support for events like their upcoming Walk Against Homelessness fundraiser on June 14 are crucial for their survival. But for now, the immediate future and the successful delivery of essential meals hang in the balance.

The situation underscores the vital role food assistance programs play, especially in times of economic hardship. Keeping organizations like Chosen 300 afloat is crucial for those relying entirely on such services.

For more information on food assistance and how to help, visit the [Emergency Food and Shelter Program](https://www.fema.gov/emergency-food-and-shelter-program).

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