Power of the Pen: PA Needs an Emergency Relief Fund

Speaking out is a way to exercise your rights.

Speaking out effectively is a way to change the world. Coordinated letter writing to those in power is a proven way to make progress on critical issues. So join us for this month’s Power of the Pen.

Every month we discuss a key policy issue that’s causing hunger and economic injustice in Allegheny County. Then we write letters to government officials and newspapers, calling for change.

This month’s focus: Protect Access to SNAP!

Location: 1 Smithfield St. in downtown Pittsburgh (see map below)

In Pennsylvania, if you become ill and can no longer work, if you spend your last savings to keep a roof over your head and go to apply for cash assistance, the answer is an automatic “no” unless you have children in your household. That wasn’t true before state legislators, in a party line vote, ended General Assistance this summer for adults who are not able to work and who do not have children.

There is an effort in the PA House and Senate to establish an Emergency Relief Fund to fill the gap left when General Assistance ended (Senate Bill 799 and House Bill 1709). Come to learn more about the legislative process from State Senators Lindsey Williams and Pam Iovino, write letters in support of these bills, and learn about ways to spread the word about why PA needs an Emergency Relief Fund.

Please Register:

Your advance registration will ensure we have enough food and materials for all attendees.