BCOC RESPONDS TO FEDERAL SHUTDOWN AND SNAP BENEFIT LOSS:
The ongoing federal government shutdown has created an immediate crisis for thousands of Bucks County families. Beginning next week, more than 46,000 residents will lose access to SNAP benefits, the primary source of food assistance for many. For every meal provided through the charitable food network, SNAP provides nine—making this loss devastating for households already struggling to make ends meet.
The Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC), as the county’s lead food agency, is taking immediate action to help stabilize families and the local food system during this unprecedented disruption.
Emergency Action Plan:
- $75,000 in emergency funds from BCOC’s reserves will be used to:
- Support families through emergency food and utility assistance
- Bulk purchase food for our pantry network to keep shelves stocked
- Strengthen local food pantries as they face increased demand
- Coordination with 50+ pantry partners to assess needs, share resources, and streamline food distribution.
- Increased communication with local, state, and federal officials to advocate for restored funding and stronger long-term solutions.
How You Can Help:
You can make a difference right now:
- Donate to BCOC – Your gift helps provide food, heating assistance, and emergency support: https://bcoc.org/how-to-donate/
- Donate to your local food pantry – Many are volunteer-run and need both funding and food donations.
- Host a Food Drive – Organize with your school, business, or faith community to collect nonperishable items.
- Volunteer – Local pantries need helping hands. Visit www.bcoc.org/volunteer for opportunities.
- Offer temporary storage space to help with the bulk purchasing of food
- Advocate – Contact your elected officials and urge them to work toward ending the shutdown and restoring SNAP and LIHEAP funding.