Collaborative Meeting

SNAP policy changes and food insecurity impacts on families, including immigrant and refugee communities, and community response strategies.

Please join us on Thursday, May 28 from 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM at the Allegheny Intermediate Unit (475 East Waterfront Drive, Homestead, PA 15120) for the next Jefferson Community Collaborative meeting, A SNAP Decision: Responding to Changes That Impact Food Availability Within the JRF Community.

Across our region, food insecurity remains a pressing issue. At the same time, changes to federal policy, particularly around SNAP benefits and eligibility, will have significant impact for communities served by Collaborative partners. For nonprofit organizations working closely with residents, understanding what is changing, who will be affected, and how to respond is critical.

The meeting will begin with a brief overview from Grants, Evaluation, and Data Manager Steve Ankney, highlighting a review of data points from A Review of Prevalent Health Conditions in the JRF Footprint, including information on cancer rates, asthma, and food insecurity.

The session will then transition to a facilitated panel discussion featuring:

· Charla Irwin-Buncher, Chief External Affairs Officer, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

· Ann Sanders, Director of Public Benefits Policy & Programs, Just Harvest

· Ivonne Smith-Tapia, Director, JFCS Refugee & Immigrant Services

Panelists will share insights into SNAP policy changes, including shifts in work requirements and their impact on families and communities – particularly immigrant and refugee populations. Table discussions will provide space for connection, reflection, and peer learning.

We hope you will join us for this timely and important conversation and lend your voice to the work ahead.