SNAP Changes

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Significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are taking effect across Pennsylvania, potentially impacting thousands of families, workers, seniors, veterans, and low-income residents throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Advocates and food assistance organizations are urging SNAP recipients to review their cases immediately, as new work requirements, stricter exemption standards, and expanded documentation rules could result in reduced benefits or the loss of assistance for some households.

The federal budget legislation passed in 2025 included major modifications to SNAP eligibility requirements. While the program continues to provide food assistance to eligible households, recipients now face additional responsibilities to maintain their benefits.

Among the most significant changes:

Most able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 64 must now work, volunteer, or participate in an approved job training program for at least 20 hours per week.

Individuals who fail to meet the requirement and do not qualify for an exemption may only receive SNAP benefits for three months during a three-year period.

For many residents in Allegheny County and surrounding communities, the change represents a major shift in eligibility rules.

Some groups that were previously protected from work requirements may no longer automatically qualify for exemptions.

Changes include:

• Parents and guardians are generally exempt only if they care for a dependent child under age 14.
• Veterans are no longer automatically exempt.
• Individuals experiencing homelessness are no longer automatically exempt.
• Young adults who recently aged out of foster care are no longer automatically exempt.

However, medical, disability-related, and certain hardship exemptions may still apply.

Advocates stress that recipients should not assume they are ineligible. Instead, they should contact their caseworker or local assistance office to determine whether they qualify for an exemption.

Another major change involves verification of housing and utility expenses.

Applicants and current recipients may now be required to provide documentation showing:

• Rent or mortgage costs
• Utility bills
• Heating expenses
• Electric service responsibilities
• Other shelter-related costs

Failure to submit required documentation during application, renewal, or recertification periods could result in reduced monthly benefits.

The changes arrive at a time when many families are already struggling with rising grocery prices, housing costs, and economic uncertainty.

Organizations across the Pittsburgh region report increased demand at food pantries and meal distribution sites. Advocates worry that some eligible residents could lose benefits simply because they are unaware of the new requirements or fail to submit required paperwork on time.

Communities throughout Allegheny, Westmoreland, Beaver, Washington, Fayette, Butler, and Armstrong counties could see the effects of the policy changes.

Experts recommend that recipients act quickly to protect their benefits.

Check your account information and verify that all household details are accurate.

Collect copies of:

• Lease agreements
• Mortgage statements
• Utility bills
• Proof of income
• Medical records supporting exemption requests

Individuals with disabilities, health limitations, caregiving responsibilities, or other hardships may still qualify for exemptions.

Do not ignore letters, emails, or requests from the Department of Human Services.

Missing deadlines could affect benefits.

Many organizations offer free help with applications, renewals, appeals, and exemption requests.

Pennsylvania residents can access assistance through:

• The Pennsylvania COMPASS online benefits portal
• Their local County Assistance Office
• Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank SNAP outreach programs
• Community Legal Services of Philadelphia
• Local food pantries and community organizations

Advocates say the most important step is taking action early.

"Many people may still qualify for benefits," outreach workers note, "but they need to make sure their paperwork is complete and that they understand the new rules."

As the changes roll out across Pennsylvania, food security organizations throughout Western Pennsylvania are encouraging SNAP recipients to stay informed, keep documentation updated, and seek help immediately if they receive notices about their eligibility.

For thousands of families relying on SNAP to help put food on the table, understanding these new requirements could make the difference between maintaining benefits and losing critical assistance.

On March 23, 2026, Buffalo Bills safety and Pittsburgh native 

Damar Hamlin returned to his alma mater, Central Catholic High School, to launch a new scholarship initiative through his Chasing M's Foundation. 

The foundation is funding a total of 15 scholarships for the Pittsburgh area: 

• 10 Central Catholic Scholarships: Each worth $1,000, these will be awarded annually to qualified students at Central Catholic High School.
• 5 Vocational Scholarships: Also worth $1,000 each, these are available to any Pittsburgh-area high school student planning to attend a trade or vocational school.

Key Dates and Information

• Purpose: Part of the "Heroes Scholarship" program, these awards honor the 10 medical professionals who saved Hamlin’s life after his cardiac arrest in January 2023.
• Application Deadline: Applications for the current cycle close on May 1, with recipients expected to be notified in mid-June.
• How to Apply: Interested students can find details and apply directly through the Chasing M's Foundation website. 

This expansion follows previous launches of the scholarship program in Cincinnati (2024) and Buffalo (2025). During the announcement, Hamlin expressed deep gratitude, noting that a similar scholarship originally made it possible for him to attend Central Catholic. 

We are proud to welcome Damar Hamlin, ’16, back to campus as he expands his Chasing M’s Foundation Heroes Scholarship to support students in Pittsburgh. Inspired by the individuals who saved his life, Damar continues to give back by creating opportunities for underserved youth to pursue their educational goals. 

Through this initiative, Central Catholic students and others across the Pittsburgh community will benefit from scholarships that help make private, vocational, and higher education more accessible.

Accompanied in a press conference by fellow alumnus Corey O'Connor, '02, mayor of the City of Pittsburgh, who both had favorable remarks about their alma mater, Central Catholic High School!

The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation Announces $2M Matched Donation to The Josh Gibson Foundation to Build New Youth Sports Facility in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania

Today, The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation and The Josh Gibson Foundation announced a powerful new partnership aimed at investing in the future of youth sports in their hometown of Pittsburgh. As part of the effort, The DICK'S Foundation will contribute up to $2M in matching funds to The Josh Gibson Foundation to build a state-of-the-art youth sports facility in McKees Rocks, PA.

The new Josh Gibson Champions Club & Sports Matter Center will be developed and managed by The Josh Gibson Foundation and will serve as a hub for young athletes across the community. Designed to promote the mental, emotional and physical well-being of children, the facility will offer modern sports amenities, safe spaces for play and programming to help youth grow both on and off the field.

"The Josh Gibson Foundation has long been a pillar of opportunity and inspiration for youth in our hometown of Pittsburgh," said Julie Lodge-Jarrett, EVP, Chief People, Purpose and Transformation Officer at DICK'S Sporting Goods. "We're proud to stand alongside them in this transformative project. By committing up to $2M in matching funds, we hope to encourage others in the community to contribute as well."

"The DICK'S Foundation's investment in this project is more than just funding, it's a belief in our mission and in the young people of this community," said Sean Gibson, Executive Director of The Josh Gibson Foundation. "This new facility will provide a safe, supportive environment where kids can learn, grow and reach their full potential."

Under Armour, who alongside The DICK'S Foundation firmly believes in the power of sports, is proud to partner with the Josh Gibson Foundation and provide $250,000 in support of this inspiring project. Under Armour's donation is on top of the $2M in matching funds pledge by the The DICK'S Foundation. In addition to the monetary gift, Under Armour will also ensure that the athletes at The Josh Gibson Foundation have access to UA's latest and most innovative baseball and softball gear to help them reach their greatest potential both on and off the field. 

For more information about The DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation and its mission to inspire and enable youth sports participation across the country, visit www.sportsmatter.org. For more information on The Josh Gibson Foundation and to contribute to the Josh Gibson Club & Sports Matter Center, please visit joshgibson.org.

VIEW LAUNCH VIDEO HERE: https://jccpgh.org/jewish-life/unity-in-community/

 The Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater Pittsburgh and the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership, “Unity in Community”, designed to bring people together, foster dialogue, and stand against hate in all its forms.

This historic collaboration leverages the deep-rooted community connections of both organizations, creating a platform for education, engagement, and understanding at a time when unity is more important than ever. The partnership was inspired by the shared vision of YMCA CEO Amy Kienle and JCC CEO Jason Kunzman, whose connection sparked a commitment to building bridges across Pittsburgh’s diverse communities.

“This partnership reflects our shared belief that community thrives when we learn from one another and work together to confront hate,” said Amy Kienle, CEO of YMCA Greater Pittsburgh. “By uniting the YMCA’s wide-reaching network with the JCC’s strong educational programming, we are creating spaces where dialogue, understanding, and connection can flourish.”

“Our organizations have always been pillars of support and education in Pittsburgh,” said Jason Kunzman, CEO of the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh. “Through Unity in Community, we are intentionally coming together to educate, engage, and empower our neighbors to resist hatred and embrace inclusivity.”

The initiative launches with the Curious Conversations Speaker Series, running from Fall 2025 through Spring 2026. This series will create meaningful learning opportunities for families, educators, and community members, tackling pressing topics while fostering dialogue, education, and connection. Events will take place in accessible venues across Pittsburgh, including the JCC, YMCA branches, churches, and community centers, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate.

Program Highlights & Key Dates:

• October 19–25: United Against Hate Week 
• January 19: MLK Program – Resisting Racism
• February 16: Combating Jew Hatred
• April 16: Diverse Abilities
• May 19: LGBTQ+ Rights and Advocacy
• June: Staff Training on Wellness, Resilience, and Summer Program Support

“Unity in Community is about more than events; it’s about fostering ongoing connections,” added Kienle. “We want everyone in Pittsburgh to know that this series is open to all – a space to come, interact, and engage with one another.”

“In a world that too often highlights division, this partnership is a testament to what can happen when institutions rooted in compassion and service unite for the greater good,” Kunzman added. “Unity in Community is not just a program; it’s a movement toward a more empathetic and resilient Pittsburgh.”

Rooted in education, intergroup dialogue, storytelling, and collaborative action, Unity in Community combines the complementary strengths of both organizations to effectively reduce prejudice, increase empathy, and build resilient communities. By creating platforms for people from diverse backgrounds to interact, share stories, and learn together, the partnership offers a research-backed approach to combating hate and extremism.

Further details on the speaker series and individual events will be released in the coming weeks – more information about the project can be found at https://jccpgh.org/jewish-life/unity-in-community/

About the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh:
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh is a cornerstone of community life in Pittsburgh, dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. The JCC offers a wide range of programs and services for individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds, including fitness, arts, culture, education, and social services.

About the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh:
The YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh builds community through programs that promote health, education, social responsibility, and inclusion, serving as a trusted organization for individuals and families across the region.

The Heinz Endowments has started the new year by reaffirming its commitment to the Sarah Heinz House. The Endowments’ board of directors has approved two significant grants totaling $3.05 million. This funding will ensure that the organization, which is over 120 years old, remains a critical center of support for youth and families on Pittsburgh’s North Side and across the city and continues to foster healthy personal and social development for those it serves. The investment comes at a pivotal time as the Sarah Heinz House prepares to build on its legacy of service and continue adapting to meet the community's evolving needs in 2025 and beyond.

“The Sarah Heinz House has been a vital resource for generations of young people and families in Pittsburgh,” said Endowments President Chris DeCardy. “These investments ensure the facility remains a safe, welcoming space for the community to thrive and grow for years to come.”

The most recent grant, approved at the Endowments’ fall 2024 board meeting, awarded $1.8 million to the organization for critical upgrades to its facility, including roof repairs, resurfacing the indoor pool, replacing the climbing wall, updating fencing, and enhancing the building's security systems. Work on these projects is underway and will continue through 2025.

The pool resurfacing project was completed at the end of December 2024, a contractor has been selected for the fencing upgrades, and estimates for the new security systems are currently being solicited. These upgrades are essential to maintaining the safety and usability of the facility for its growing membership.

The Heinz Endowments has also provided $1.25 million to support a community outreach plan to extend the organization’s services to reach more youth and older adults in the North Side community and to help fund operations. This community outreach initiative is advancing and has so far led to considerable growth in participation. The Sarah Heinz House achieved a remarkable 159% increase in the number of youth members served in 2024 compared to 2023.

“The funding not only addresses our vital infrastructure needs but also enables us to expand our reach and enhance our impact,” said Sarah Heinz House CEO Demeshia Seals. “We are deeply appreciative for The Heinz Endowments’ unwavering belief in and support of our mission, 'to empower all, especially those who need us most, to laugh, learn and lead.'”

A founding member of the national Boys and Girls Club network, the Sarah Heinz House achieved another significant milestone in 2024 when it was designated as an Allegheny County senior center. Through this designation, the Sarah Heinz House has expanded its outreach to older adults with new programs and services, complementing its longstanding focus on empowering youth.

“Our partnership with the Sarah Heinz House reflects the shared belief that every child, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Carmen Anderson, vice president of Learning and Equity at the Endowments.

The Sarah Heinz House, established in 1901 on Pittsburgh’s North Side, is a historic community center dedicated to uplifting youth and families through education, recreation, and leadership development. Named in honor of Sarah Young Heinz, the late wife of H.J. Heinz Company founder Henry John Heinz, the center reflects her legacy of compassion and service to others. Originally founded to support immigrant families with English lessons and vocational training, it has evolved to offer a full slate of after-school and summer programs in STEM, robotics, arts, and athletics.

Join us in supporting Jerome Bettis' mission to bridge the digital divide with his CyberBus program. 

Join us in our mission to empower under-resourced communities through digital literacy and education. The Jerome Bettis Bus Stops Here Foundation is launching a $2.5 million capital campaign with a primary goal of raising funds by the end of 2025. This ambitious effort will allow us to expand our impactful programs, with a particular focus on our signature CyberBus initiative. Our goal is to introduce two additional CyberBuses—one in Pittsburgh and one in Detroit—by 2025, bringing essential computer science education and resources directly to the communities that need them most. Together, we can drive change and help build a brighter future for our youth. #RollWithTheBus

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Get out and about while safely working on projects that help create a more vibrant and beautiful Downtown. 

As people begin returning to the neighborhood, volunteers are needed now, more than ever, to preserve, beautify, and clean up our historic Downtown. Volunteering with our highly-acclaimed Clean Team is an impactful way to get outside and enjoy the neighborhood while also ensuring it remains a welcoming space for all.

And, of course, your safety is a priority. All volunteers will follow proper health and safety protocols, social distancing, and face masks/covering requirements to stay safe while working effectively.

Our volunteers work weekdays and weekends on a wide variety of projects. Volunteer initiatives all revolve around our mission to make Downtown vibrant, clean, and accessible, and can include picking up litter, cleaning graffiti, weeding public spaces and parks, raking leaves, and cleaning public fixtures like newspaper boxes, light fixtures, and bus shelters. 

Additionally, volunteers may be mobilized following large events like parades, celebrations, and more. Our volunteers are a crucial part of ensuring residents, workers, and visitors always see an energetic city in motion, and we could not accomplish what we do without their help!

Whether you’re a Downtown resident looking to help keep the neighborhood clean, a corporate team looking for an out-of-office experience to give back to the community, a school group planning a service day, or just someone interested in making Downtown Pittsburgh shine, we can craft a volunteer experience suited to your needs.  

Visit our volunteer scheduling page on the Pittsburgh Cares hub to browse available volunteer dates and register for upcoming opportunities. 

Register Now