GOVERNOR SHAPIRO PACKS BOXES OF FOOD AT WESTMORELAND FOOD BANK

Governor Josh Shapiro helped pack boxes of food on Tuesday at the Westmoreland Food Bank in Delmont.  KDKA-TV reports that the recently passed budget does contain a 40% increase in funding for food assistance programs.  He said grocery prices are hurting many across the region and state, and the issue affects everyone.  The Westmoreland Food Bank serves an average of 15,000 households in a normal month. However, the need increases during the holiday season.  The Westmoreland Food Bank saw its call referrals go up 278% during the federal government shutdown when SNAP benefits were paused.