As Christians, we pray for daily bread, not just for ourselves, but for our neighbors. As Lutherans, we believe we are called to act for a just world where all are fed. Since the start of the pandemic, our congregations and ministries have been finding new ways and new energy to feed our communities. One of the programs for which LAMPa has long advocated has proven to be vital in this time when other systems were not keeping up. Now, when lawmakers are making budget choices, it's clear that the State Food Purchase Program and the Pa. Agricultural Surplus System must be a priority.

The Pennsylvania State Food Purchase Program (SFPP), and the Pa. Agricultural Surplus System (PASS), which supply much of the food in our food banks and community and congregational food pantries, require an increase in funding. With Pennsylvania's charitable food network still witnessing increasing demand, the pre-pandemic $18.188 million for SFPP and $1.5 million for PASS will not be sufficient to serve our neighbors in need.

NOW is the time to request the SFPP funding be increased to $24 million and PASS increased to $5 million as lawmakers are making decisions on the 2021-22 budget. You can support the effort by sending a message to lawmakers on behalf of the hungry in your community. Please add your own thoughts based on your faith, your life and the ministry of your congregation.