City of Philadelphia Launches It’s 'One Philly (SNAP) Support Plan” Response to Impacts on SNAP Benefits

PHILADELPHIA - The Parker Administration today announced the launch of its, "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. "This morning, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker signed an Executive Order that sets the plan in motion across City agencies," said Renee Garcia, Philadelphia Solicitor.

The city estimates that there are close to 500,000 city residents who face a disruption in their receipt of SNAP benefits. That's in addition to thousands of residents who are already navigating increasingly difficult financial headwinds due to uncertainty. With a multitude of our residents and advocates traversing these unprecedented conditions, the Parker Administration is allocating $7 million dollars as part of a $14 million regional effort to support city residents who may be affected by these ongoing disruptions. The $14 million includes: $7 million from the City, $6 million from philanthropy, and approximately $1 million from the Commonwealth.

The One Philly (SNAP) Support Plan Affirms that
Addressing these impacts require a holistic coordinated response across multiple pillars, including food security, housing assistance, utility support, resources for small businesses, and aid for federal employees who are city residents.

Security:

• Immediate allocation of $4 million to food distribution partners. These funds will help nonprofit agencies deliver immediate food assistance across the city in conjunction with community-based organizations. o This allocation is in addition to the $6 million "Regional Food Fund" established by philanthropic partners to support the regions' food banks.
  • Through a donation from Aramark, we are also expanding the One Philly Produce Project to 43 Community and Extended Day / Extended Year Program schools beginning next week in partnership with Sharing Excess and Food Connect. We expect to distribute more than 300,000 pounds of fresh produce this school year.
• A City-wide public education campaign directing residents to the City's Food and Meal Finder, where they can locate free groceries, meals, and support accessing public benefits.
• Mayor Parker will host a convening of Philadelphia's food aid nonprofit leaders on Monday, November 3 at City Hall.

Rent & Utility Relief:

• $1.5 million in emergency rental assistance has been earmarked toward supporting furloughed federal workers who are city residents at risk of eviction.
• $1 million in reallocated funds at the Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) to support some of our most vulnerable families with food assistance. Families receiving services through the Community Umbrella Agencies (CUAs), Family Empowerment Programs, or the Achieving Reunification Center should connect with their case managers for emergency food.
• Residents can also access enhanced navigation and support from Neighborhood Community Action Centers (NCAC) and BenePhilly specialists who will be available to connect them with registering for benefits and resources.

Support for Federal Employees & Small Businesses:

• Emergency Revenue Replacement for Small Businesses: The city will provide $500,000 inEmergency Revenue Replacement Grants for small food retailers, corner stores and grocers to help keep doors open and food available in every neighborhood. This program has been created by the Department of Commerce in partnership with The Merchants Fund.
• Assistance for Furloughed Federal Employees who are City Residents: The Department of Revenue has established a temporary payment deferral program for furloughed federal employees who are city residents, covering water bills, real estate tax installment plans, and Owner-Occupied Payment Agreements (OOPA) with no late fees or penalties while federal pay is disrupted.

This is a comprehensive strategy for Philadelphia, that emphasizes our unwavering commitment to serve our residents while we face increased uncertainty," said Tiffany W. Thurman, Chief of Staff. "We have mobilized city resources and coordinated logistics across departments to ensure food, housing, and utility support gets to those who need it without delay. Our teams are working day and night so families and workers know they are not alone during this crisis."

Looking Ahead
While the Parker Administration is implementing this comprehensive strategy, it cannot fully replace the SNAP funds in limbo. Ongoing budget impasses at both the state and federal level are creating a significant cash management challenge for the City of Philadelphia. As of the end of October, the City has not received more than $600 million in anticipated funding from other government sources. Should these circumstances persist through the end of the calendar year, the cumulative shortfall could approach $800 million. The Parker Administration remains committed to sustaining essential programs and pursuing every available measure to support Philadelphia residents.

"One Philadelphia means a United City for every citizen, every day." said Mayor Parker. "Together, we will ensure no neighbor is left behind while we continue advocating for the restoration of full SNAP benefits."