HealthSpark Foundation Launches Urgent Aid Amid Shutdown Crisis
UPDATE: The HealthSpark Foundation has just opened applications for urgent “rapid response” funding as the federal government shutdown continues to impact vital services. As of November 1, 2023, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced that there will be no benefits issued for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), raising alarms for thousands of families in Montgomery County.
HealthSpark Foundation President and CEO Emma Hertz voiced her deep concern over the immediate financial implications for local residents. In a recent interview, she stated, “This is a terrible self-imposed situation that we’re sitting in right now.” The ongoing shutdown has now reached 29 days, leaving many families struggling with food insecurity as essential services face cuts.
“We’re seeing cuts in food security programs already impacting local food banks,” Hertz highlighted. With between 62,000 and 65,000 individuals relying on SNAP in Montgomery County alone, the potential loss of these benefits could lead to dire consequences. Feeding America reports that approximately 85,000 people in the area currently experience food insecurity.
To combat this crisis, the HealthSpark Foundation has allocated $50,000 for rapid response funding this year, following a similar amount last year. Organizations can receive between $500 and $5,000 in “one-time” assistance to address urgent needs. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with funds expected to be distributed within two weeks of approval.
Hertz emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “I think the reality is that we’re going to see kids go hungry, and that we’re going to see women go hungry, and pregnant women go hungry.” She stressed the importance of immediate financial support for organizations mobilizing to defend food justice in the community.
Not only are families at risk, but Hertz also warned of a “ripple effect” that could impact agriculture, grocery stores, and other food retail industries. “In addition to the families themselves, it’s just a huge impact that we’re going to see, and I don’t think that people fully appreciate that,” she said.
As interest in the funding grows, at least 10 applications have been submitted since the announcement on Monday. Organizations from various sectors, including social services and housing, are encouraged to apply for this critical support.
Hertz noted that ongoing advocacy is essential, urging nonprofits to educate lawmakers and the public about the broader implications of the funding lapses. “We hope that nonprofit organizations are using the funding to educate their lawmakers,” she stated.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing budget impasse in Pennsylvania, which has left more than $25 million in aid for food pantries in limbo. The Pennsylvania General Assembly has yet to authorize a budget nearly four months past the scheduled deadline, exacerbating the crisis for local organizations.
Hertz remarked, “These are choices that our elected officials are making to not provide necessary services to organizations.” With many nonprofits facing financial strain, staff layoffs and program halts are becoming a grim reality.
Interested organizations can apply for funding through the HealthSpark Foundation’s online portal. For more information, visit healthspark.org or contact [email protected].
The HealthSpark Foundation is committed to providing immediate support to Montgomery County residents in this time of urgent need, as the call for government action grows louder.
