When the government shut down, causing SNAP benefits to expire on November 1, thousands of families faced an immediate gap in food assistance. Local food pantries immediately felt the pressure as people scrambled to figure out a solution.

At the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, we believe that no one should feel the effects of food insecurity.

That's why we were able to act decisively and award a $10,000 emergency grant to Jewish Family & Community Services (JFCS). This funding ensured that kosher food remained accessible to individuals and families during a critical time of need. The grant allowed JFCS to expand food distribution programs, purchase additional kosher items and extend pantry hours to meet an unprecedented surge in demand. Additionally, social media and email messages were sent encouraging people to donate food to the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry and other local organizations in need. As JFCS CEO Jordan Golin noted, the Squirrel Hill Food Pantry was already experiencing the largest increase in its 25-year history—an increase that would have worsened without immediate intervention.

Thanks to your support, the Federation was able to tap into the disaster-response grant pool to make this rapid action possible. “We are proud to help JFCS reach more people who are struggling right now,” said Jeff Finkelstein, President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, underscoring the Federation’s commitment to building a flourishing, inclusive Jewish community—especially in times of crisis. This proactive approach exemplifies how strategic planning and community partnerships can turn compassion into impact, ensuring that no one is left behind when challenges arise.