Food Assistance
The Pennsylvania
Department of Agriculture is helping low-income Pennsylvanians access
nutritious food.
The Bureau of Food
Assistance is a vital part of the process that helps move food from the farm
to the dinner table so more Pennsylvanians can share in the harvest. Using
state and federal resources, the bureau works with Pennsylvania's more than
1,800 local food banks and pantries, lead agencies, soup kitchens, and other
local non-profit organizations to secure food products and funding.
Pennsylvania is a
national leader and pioneer in combating hunger and finding ways to cut
administrative costs while providing better service to its constituents.
The Bureau manages
Pennsylvania's food and funding allocations for programs such as The Emergency
Food Assistance Program, Commodity Supplemental Food Program, National School
Lunch Program, Summer Food Service Program, Farmers Market Nutrition Program, Senior
Farmers Market Nutrition Program, State Food Purchase Program, and
others. This work is done in conjunction with USDA and many local partners
who make up the state's charitable food system.
The Bureau can be
reached at 800-468-2433, or e-mailing at, RA-Fooddist@pa.gov
Local Emergency
Feeding Programs and Resources:
Information on local emergency feeding programs and
resources is also available through the USDA National Hunger Hotline. The
Hotline connects individuals in need to emergency food in their community,
government assistance programs, and various social services. The Hotline
can be reached at (866) 348-6479. Additional information on local programs and
resources can also be found by visiting the USDA National Hunger Clearinghouse Database of EmergencyFood Sites.
One Size Doesn't Fit All. Provided by the United States Department
of Agriculture (USDA), ChoseMyPlate.gov offers ideas and tips to help you create a healthier eating
style that meets your individual needs and improves your health.
USDA Nondiscrimination Statement