Local Businesses, Charities Unite to Support SNAP Recipients

SNAP payments halted Saturday, Nov. 1 because of the federal government shut down, which affected nearly two million in Pennsylvania. The Shapiro administration calculated that more than 713,000 children lost access, as did 697,000 older adults statewide, according to Fox43.

Businesses, organizations, and nonprofits across south-central Pennsylvania have stepped up. They want to help offset the impact. These groups are offering discounts, donations, and free meals to families who depended on the program.

Adams County Farmers Market tripled SNAP benefits on Saturday, Nov. 1. SNAP customers swiped their EBT cards at the market manager booth, and the money on their cards could be exchanged for tokens.

Papa's Pizza in Mount Joy started offering free meals to kids on Tuesday, Nov. 4 for those who use SNAP benefits. Kids can pick spaghetti with marinara or two slices of cheese pizza as their free meal.

The pizzeria is also running a promotion for parents, guardians, and any adults losing their benefits. SNAP beneficiaries can get 20% off their dine-in or to-go orders, but adults must show their SNAP card and ID.

The offer runs every Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The promotion will end when SNAP benefits are restored.

Stone Cold Meats & Seafood in Elizabethtown is offering 20% off the total bill of Stone Cold Meats orders. They're also offering 10% off the total bill of Tina's Tasty Treats orders for those who receive SNAP benefits. A SNAP benefits card and ID must be shown to receive the discount.

Riverside Subs in Wrightsville has started collecting nonperishable food items and bringing them to families in need throughout the area.

White Clover Farms in Hellam Township is organizing a drive. Twelve other local businesses are providing weekly meal kits in November. The drives are open to anyone in need and take place each Thursday from 4-6 p.m. at the Eastern York Food Pantry in Wrightsville.

Meal kits will include fresh produce and other items, but they must be reserved with the farm ahead of time.

Two nonprofits in Cumberland County are joining forces. They'll host "Fill the Nest. Share the Light" at Pleasant View Park in Mechanicsburg on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 3 p.m. The Nest of Pennsylvania and Holden's Light will encourage members of the area to donate formula, diapers, wipes, and non-perishable food items. Participants can enjoy free coffee and children's crafts at the event.

Water Street Mission launched its 2025 Rescue Mission Food Drive on Thursday. The drive runs until Dec. 23. The organization hopes to collect 80,000 lbs. of non-perishable food to help feed residents on its campus and local neighbors facing insecurity through its Outreach Center.

York County Food Bank's Senior Food Box Program provides more than 2,000 seniors with boxes of shelf-stable items, including milk, juice, pasta, rice, beans, and canned goods. Boxes can be picked up at the food bank's warehouse in Manchester Township and at Living Word Community Church in Red Lion. The food bank is also partnering with Doordash to deliver boxes to homes.