WellSpan Partners with CPFB to Deliver 1 Million Meals and Combat Food Insecurity

WellSpan Health is making a significant move to combat food insecurity in Central Pennsylvania. They’ve announced a contribution that will provide the equivalent of 1 million meals through a $275,000 donation to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. This comes as the region faces challenges with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps low-income families afford food. If SNAP funding pauses due to the federal government shutdown, many families will lean more heavily on local food banks.

Nearly 2 million people in Pennsylvania benefit from SNAP, according to state data. Roxanna Gapstur, the president, and CEO of WellSpan, stressed the importance of supporting community health. She said, “Lifelong wellness starts with the most basic of necessities.”

Shila Ulrich, CEO of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, highlighted the urgency of the situation. The shutdown creates anxiety for families who rely on SNAP. She noted that these families might find themselves needing food assistance more than ever. Ulrich called WellSpan’s contribution both generous and timely.

This isn’t WellSpan’s first foray into tackling food insecurity. Earlier this year, their Community Impact Report revealed an investment of over $1.5 million aimed at addressing this issue. In 2024 alone, they screened about 400,000 patients for food, housing, and transportation insecurity, connecting many with vital services.

The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank plays a crucial role in this effort. Serving 27 counties, it partners with over 1,000 charitable organizations to reach around 253,000 individuals every month. They ensure food is collected and distributed effectively, making a real impact in the community.

As food insecurity continues to be a pressing issue, community efforts like these are essential. Addressing hunger not only helps families in immediate need but also contributes to the overall health of the community.

For more details on WellSpan’s initiatives, you can visit WellSpan in the community. For information on the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, check out their website.

Source link