PHILIPSBURG — All through the year, the YMCA of Centre County’s Anti-Hunger Program works to help people facing food insecurities. Those efforts got a big boost on Oct. 26, when the program was awarded a $140,000 state grant for the purchase of new refrigeration truck.
It couldn’t have come at a better time.
“Inflation has really done a number on families,” said Mel Curtis, program director of the Anti-Hunger Program, noting the program is now serving more people than during the peak of COVID.
He said that while Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits have increased for low-income families since the pandemic began, other families are feeling the pinch of inflation and are in need.
“Very few of who we are seeing are on SNAP. We are seeing more working families and senior citizens,” said Curtis. And he says as the weather gets colder and with the rising cost of heating fuel, he expects things to get even worse for families as inflation continues to be an issue. To help, the YMCA currently oversees 21 food distributions each month (more than during peak COVID), with more planned as the holiday season approaches.
The state grant will cover the complete cost of a new refrigeration truck, which will allow the YMCA to reach more people in need. With the ability to transport perishable food longer, Curtis said the hope is to be able to hit “all the nooks and crannies of Centre County.”
“Funding for this new mobile food truck means workers will be able to distribute fresh, nutritious food to those in the community who might not otherwise have access to it,” said State Rep. Scott Conklin (D-Philipsburg) in a press release announcing the grant. “I’ve long supported the Moshannon Valley YMCA, and I was happy that I was able to work with them to make this happen.”
The new vehicle will also allow more availability for the pickup of donations from businesses and grocery stores, meaning the program will have more product for people in need.
Curtis and his team are currently looking for a refrigerated unit that will meet the needs. Having one made to specifics would probably keep them waiting until 2024, but Curtis said he is hoping to find a suitable model from a dealer by the start of next year.
In the meantime, the YMCA will continue its mission to fight hunger. A food summit is being planned for Dec. 9, where community leaders and members can come together to work on the issue. More information will be forthcoming.
“The goal is simple,” said Curtis. “Get the community to wrap our arms around each other so we can rebuild.”
