Union employees of Philadelphia International Airport impacted by the government shutdown and in need of food assistance got a boost thanks to a partnership between two agencies of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia: Nutritional Development Services (NDS) and Catholic Social Services’ Southwest Family Service Center (SWFSC).
On Tuesday, January 16th NDS delivered a pallet of staple food items to Philadelphia International Airport. The pallet included spaghetti and sauce, soup, stew, breakfast items, applesauce, tuna, and low sodium canned vegetables that workers can use to create several meals for their families in this time of need. Additionally, the SWFSC provided essential baby supplies and personal care items.
Ms. Brooke Mullen, Assistant Director of Community Relations for NDS said, “Food assistance is at the core of our NDS mission and is something we have been doing for many years. Often the people we encounter are experiencing chronic hunger and utilizing food assistance programs, including our food cupboards throughout the five counties, on a regular basis. In this situation, however, individuals that may not typically face hunger, or are working just above the assistance line, are confronted with an unprecedented food emergency brought on by the government shutdown. We are grateful to have the means to assist all individuals and their families encountering food insecurity, regardless of the cause.”
NDS anticipates the number of individuals in need of emergency food assistance who turn to cupboards will increase, especially individuals that utilize SNAP assistance. Those interested in helping their neighbors in need can call Denise Hopkins, Administrator of NDS’ Community Food Program, at (215)895-3470 or email [email protected].
Ms. Mullen said, “Another way that families can shoulder this burden is by utilizing other federal assistance programs, including the National School Lunch, Breakfast, and Afterschool programs as well as the Child and Adult Care Food program. Taking advantage of these programs during a time in need can provide their children with nourishing, balanced meals throughout the day, which can alleviate some of the financial burden that families are facing.”
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
ArchPhilly
ArchPhilly
Contact:
Alaina Longo
Media and Events Specialist
215-587-3747 (office)