City of Philadelphia Provides Updates on One Philly (SNAP) Support Plan & Convenes Emergency Food Aid Convening at City Hall

City opens Emergency Food Security Grant applications, deadline to apply November 5

PHILADELPHIA - The City of Philadelphia today provided an update on One Philly (SNAP) Support Plan, its coordinated response to the ongoing federal government shutdown's impact on food access programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Mayor Cherelle L. Parker convened an Emergency Food Aid Coordination effort at City Hall, bringing together city officials, nonprofit providers, and regional leaders to facilitate high-level coordination and rapid action planning among Philadelphia officials and food aid nonprofit executives affected by the federal shutdown crisis.

"Today's convening brings Philadelphia officials and food aid nonprofit leaders together to coordinate a rapid response to the federal shutdown crisis," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "No one in our city should go hungry because of a federal crisis. We're working with our partners to ensure families get the support they need, and I am grateful to everyone who contributed to the One Philly SNAP Support Plan."

The convening of over 100 small and large local nonprofit organizations is part of the City's launch and implementation of the One Philly SNAP Support Plan, a coordinated intergovernmental, public/private partnership response to the ongoing federal government shutdown and its impact on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, federal employees, small businesses, and the Philadelphia community at-large.

City Opens Emergency Food Security Grant Applications: Deadline to Apply is Wednesday, November 5

To address the critical need for food resources in Philadelphia, the City, through the Reinvestment Fund, will distribute up to $2 million in grants to local food security organizations. Grant awards will range from $5,000 to $50,000, and applications opened today, November 3, at 4 p.m. and are due by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5. After the deadline, applications will be processed on a rolling basis as long as funds remain available. The City expects to distribute funds on or about Monday, November 10.

Organizations interested in applying for support can choose from the following options:

• Online: Complete the online application at phila.gov/snapsupportgrant
• By Email: Submit a completed application via email to a [email protected].
• In-Person: Deliver the application in person at 7801 Essington Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19153. Call 215-685-9433 in advance to coordinate an in-person delivery.

Virtual Information Sessions: The Philadelphia Department of Public Health will hold two virtual "office hours" sessions for prospective applicants on Tuesday, November 4, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., and on Wednesday, November 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Emergency Revenue Replacement Grants for Small Businesses

The City is launching a new round of $500,000 in Emergency Revenue Replacement Grants for small food retailers, corner stores, and grocers to help keep doors open and food available in every neighborhood. This initiative is led by the Department of Commerce in partnership with The Merchants Fund. Learn more about the Emergency Revenue Replacement Grant and other grant programs available by visiting the Department of Commerce's website.

Assistance with Grant Application

Businesses that need help applying for financial relief or navigating challenges can contact the Mayor's Business Action Team at the Department of Commerce to receive personalized assistance in multiple languages by calling 215-683-2100 or emailing [email protected].

"Philadelphia is committed to making sure every family has access to healthy, affordable food-especially during times of crisis," said Tiffany W. Thurman, Chief of Staff. "By partnering with our local food security organizations, we can get resources to where they are needed most, faster and more effectively. We urge our community organizations to apply for this critical funding so we can work together to support every neighbor in need."

City's Free Food Finder

The City's Free Food Finder helps residents find nearby places offering groceries and meals, making it easy to get the support you need, whenever you need it.

What You'll Find on the Free Food Finder:

• Free Food Sites: take home fresh produce and pantry staples, all at no cost.

• General Meal Sites: stop by for free, prepared meals served to anyone who needs them.

• Older Adult Meal Sites: year-round meal programs designed for older adults.

• Student Meal Sites: open during summer to keep kids and teens nourished.

• Food Assistance and Benefits: get support applying for public benefits.

No ID is required at food sites, general meal sites, or student meal sites. Site details and schedules are subject to change, so please contact the site before visiting to confirm their hours and services.

To make it even easier to find and share food access information, Food access flyers are available in more than 10 languages, and Food access postcards are available in eight (8) languages.

This citywide effort is powered by the collaboration of City departments and nonprofit partners who are committed to feeding Philadelphia residents. Their ongoing commitment ensures every community has access to the food and resources needed to thrive. Find free food and meals near you by visiting phila.gov/food.

The City will continue to update the SNAP blog post with the latest information and updates. Continue to check back here for the latest news.