Hunger Statistics in Pennsylvania:

According to this latest data from Feeding America's Map the Meal Gap, released in 2025, 13.2% of Pennsylvanians—about one in eight people—experienced food insecurity, while 18.1% of children lacked reliable access to enough food. (Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap 2025, based on 2023 estimates.)

That child food insecurity rate represents an estimated 426,614 Pennsylvania kids (18.1% of the 2023 child population)—enough to fill Beaver Stadium (106,572 seats) about four times.

About 1,710,480 people across Pennsylvania face hunger. This challenge exists in every county, affecting urban, suburban, and rural communities alike.

Many households experiencing food insecurity earn too much to qualify for federal nutrition programs and instead rely on Pennsylvania food banks and their network of local partner agencies to meet basic food needs.

Partner Stories

The Sunday LOVE Project

The Sunday LOVE Project provides for those suffering from food insecurity. Historically, we have served 2,000 meals/weekly on the street, but we are switching our model to focus on a free grocery store for anyone in need. We also provide meals and groceries for various camps and schools.

 

 

 

 

 

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Philabundance  

On a rainy day when the weather could have easily dampened spirits, a neighbor arrived at a local Philabundance food distribution supported in part by Nourishing Neighbors and left with far more than groceries. They left with relief, inspiration, and a sense of being truly seen. “I just wanted to say thank you for today’s food distribution in the rain,” they later shared. “I am amazed at the quality and quantity of the food I received.” 

That evening, the contents of the food box became the centerpiece of a meal made with care and creativity. Dinner was built almost entirely from the distribution: a homemade pizza topped with roasted golden beets, sautéed beet greens, and mozzarella cheese. Dessert followed just as thoughtfully—a peach cobbler made from the peaches, butter blend, and milk included in the box. “Everything was so fresh and delicious,” the neighbor wrote, already looking ahead to what came next. “Up next, blueberry muffins and peach yogurt for breakfast!” 

More than the meals themselves, what resonated most was the meaning behind them. In the middle of a storm, the effort represented something deeper. “Your food distribution is a godsend, and very much appreciated,” the neighbor shared. They went on to reflect that the work was “a clear demonstration of your unwavering commitment to add value wherever you can,” expressing gratitude not just for the food, but for the partnership and dedication that made it possible. Thanks to that commitment, hungry residents across MontCo were not only fed—but reminded that their community shows up for them, rain or shine. 

Share Food Program  

In Greater Philadelphia, demand for food assistance stays high as everyday costs rise. Nourishing Neighbors’ most recent $100,000 grant supports Share Food Program— the region’s largest independent hunger relief organization—by strengthening its Food Purchase Program and keeping nutritious food moving through the community. 

By purchasing additional food, Share helps offset inflation and supply pressures that strain pantry shelves. Those purchases support deliveries across a network of 500+ food pantries, schools, and community partners, reaching neighbors in Philadelphia and surrounding counties with food that fits real life—fresh, familiar, and nourishing. 

The program is part of an ongoing approach that connects hunger relief with food as medicine, serving low-income seniors, adults, children, and families. It also sustains critical efforts like the Senior Food Box Program and National School Lunch Program, helping ensure that healthy choices are available when budgets are tight. In all, the initiative supports about 55,000 people, with success tracked through monthly pounds of food distributed and deliveries made to pantry partners. 

Together, Share Food Program and Nourishing Neighbors help neighbors find steady support—not just in moments of crisis, but in the everyday work of staying healthy.