Pennsylvania's governor announced new state-led efforts to support the state's charitable food network and the two million residents who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to a Friday news release.

Governor Josh Shapiro announced that $5 million in state funding will be given to Feeding Pennsylvania, a non-profit network that aims to help end hunger around the state, to distribute through its network of food banks across the Commonwealth. 

Shapiro also signed a declaration of disaster emergency to expedite the delivery of funding and relief.

"Nearly two million Pennsylvanians rely on SNAP every month - and they shouldn't have to wonder where their next meal will come from because of the dysfunction in Washington," Shapiro stated. "There is no substitute for the federal government's decision not to release SNAP benefits, but my Administration is stepping up to use every tool we have - state resources, private sector support, and the compassion of our communities - to make sure our food banks are fully stocked and our families are fed.

After Shapiro's announcement, the Pennsylvania House Democratic Leadership commended Shapiro's actions in their own news release. 

"One in four Pennsylvania children will go hungry due to these cuts to SNAP. That's outrageous and unacceptable anytime but especially cruel in the month we're supposed to celebrate Thanksgiving. Kids can't learn, play, or stay healthy on an empty stomach," they stated in their release.

Shapiro's release also commented on the actions of the federal government.

"The federal government has the money to keep people fed - they're just refusing to use it. In Pennsylvania, I won't let our families or food banks shoulder that burden alone, and I'm not going to stand by while the federal government lets Pennsylvanians go hungry," Shapiro stated.