UPDATE: In a powerful display of community spirit, Delaware County residents poured into the former Don Guanella School on October 28, delivering tons of food donations during a critical three-hour Community Food Drive. This urgent effort comes amid mounting uncertainty over the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports 77,000 residents in the county who rely on food assistance.
As vehicles lined up on Sproul Road, donors eagerly awaited their turn to contribute, reflecting the community’s dedication to helping neighbors in need. “Delaware County always shows up,” said Dr. Monica Taylor, Delaware County Council Chair. “We wanted to do a countywide food drive to try to help fill the pantries.” Volunteers worked tirelessly to load donations directly into the vehicles of local food pantries, ensuring that food could reach those in need as quickly as possible.
The food drive was organized against the backdrop of a federal government shutdown that has frozen SNAP benefits since October 1. While Governor Josh Shapiro and 24 states sought legal intervention to resume payments, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson issued a temporary pause on a recent court order allowing benefits to flow again, leaving many families in a precarious situation.
“This is a time when people are making tough decisions on how to put food on the table,” Taylor emphasized. “They’re playing with people’s lives. It makes no sense. Where’s the humanity?”
Despite the federal challenges, the community response was overwhelming. By 8:30 AM, a line of cars began forming well before the drive’s official start time of 9:00 AM. Volunteers noted that people were waiting up to thirty minutes just to enter the donation site. Approximately eight pantries, including the Share Food Program, were on-site to receive the donations, which are vital during this challenging time.
George Matysik, Executive Director of the Share Food Program, reported a staggering spike in demand, noting a twelvefold increase in new registrants seeking assistance. “For us at a time when the federal government is failing us, to have the community rally is incredibly important,” Matysik stated. “This makes a huge difference.”
The emotional impact of the food drive was palpable. Volunteers and donors alike expressed gratitude and solidarity, as many recognized the importance of supporting each other during this crisis. “It’s amazing to see Delaware County coming out for people to help their neighbors,” said U.S. Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, who paused her efforts to acknowledge the community’s compassion.
With food insecurity on the rise, the need for support is more urgent than ever. Matysik confirmed, “We’re seeing a 50% increase in total households coming to us.” The variety of donations received allows community members to select the food that meets their needs, enhancing the dignity of the service.
The success of this food drive highlights the power of community in times of crisis. Taylor praised the volunteers, stating, “Our Citizens Corps is just amazing. All the slots were filled within minutes.”
As the food drive concluded, organizers encouraged ongoing support for local food pantries. “All of our pantries are looking for volunteers on a regular basis,” Taylor noted. Donations can also be made directly to local pantries or through the Share Food website.
While the future of SNAP benefits remains uncertain, the outpouring of support in Delaware County showcases a community coming together in the face of adversity. “This is who we are,” Taylor concluded, reinforcing the message that solidarity and compassion can prevail even in challenging times.
For those wanting to help, visit DelcoPA.Gov/Community-Resources for more information on how to get involved and support local food pantries.
