Governor Moore Visits Baltimore Food Bank, Highlights $10 Million in State Aid for Food Security Partners

Maryland Governor Wes Moore recently visited Our Daily Bread in Baltimore City, a key partner in the state’s emergency food program, to express gratitude to organizations working to combat food insecurity. The visit also served to underscore the state’s commitment to supporting Maryland families affected by a prolonged federal government shutdown and delays in SNAP benefits. The $10 million in emergency funding, dispersed by the Maryland Department of Human Services, has been allocated to 99 food security partners across the state.

Our Daily Bread, operated by Catholic Charities, is recognized as Maryland’s largest hot meal program and has maintained uninterrupted service since 1979. This organization alone received over $16,000 in support through the Maryland Emergency Food Program in the last fiscal year and provided more than 34,000 meals to vulnerable adults in Baltimore City, demonstrating a significant reach among program partners. The $10 million initiative was specifically designed to assist Marylanders impacted by the federal shutdown and the delayed release of November SNAP benefits. The Department of Human Services swiftly distributed these funds by modifying existing grants and utilizing established food bank networks.

The funding distribution aimed to quickly address the needs of affected families. The Maryland Food Bank received $5.5 million, designated for Baltimore City and 21 surrounding counties within its service area. The Capital Area Food Bank received $3.5 million, focusing its efforts on Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. Notably, neither of these major food banks is charging their community partners or associated food banks administrative fees for receiving funds or food shipments. These organizations are also channeling resources to their extensive networks, which comprise over 500 partners, enabling them to procure food from local retailers.

The Maryland Food Bank reported that this influx of capital allowed them to acquire nearly 2 million pounds of food for distribution to their network of community-based partners. Additionally, 116 partners received funding to purchase more food from local grocery stores. The Capital Area Food Bank was able to supply over a million additional meals to communities in Maryland, with the support helping to meet an increased demand during a challenging period.

For Maryland residents experiencing food insecurity and requiring assistance, the state advises visiting 211 Maryland to find the nearest food pantry or food bank. Further information regarding these efforts and available resources can be found on the Department of Human Services website at dhs.maryland.gov.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from The Office of Governor Wes Moore

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