During the Federal Government shutdown, the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) - formerly known as Food Stamps - was suspended due to the pause in funding. Many area families depend upon this benefit from month to month, and the district wants area families to be aware of area and county-wide support programs that exist to lend a hand during times when food can become scarce. Compiled below is information available for families in need. If you are aware of a student or family in need of assistance, please contact the district or refer them to call "2-1-1" (see below) or view any of the resources posted here. Families and students may also be referred to the High School Guidance Office.
SNAP
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — formerly known as food stamps — is the federal government's food/basic nutrition program that helps eligible individuals and families purchase food. To qualify, households generally must:
- Meet income limits based on household size
- Be U.S. citizens or legal residents living in Pennsylvania
- Provide verification of income, expenses, and household members
Families can apply or renew at www.compass.state.pa.us or call the Clarion County Assistance Office at 814-226-1700.
Local Help is Available - The following food assistance help is available to Redbank Valley families
- New Bethlehem First Church of God Grocery Pick Up
- Location: 418 Brian Lane, New Bethlehem
- Date & Time: Wednesday, November 19, from 5:00-6:30 pm, while supplies last
(Additional dates & times TBA)
- Redbank Valley Church Association Food Pantry
- Location: 441 Broad Street, New Bethlehem
- Date & Time: Third Tuesday of each month from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Available County Resources
- 2-1-1 - Connects families 24/7 with trained professionals who link them to local food, housing, and utility support
- Local Food Resources
- Clarion County Community Bank Food Pantry - 814-226-6050 x1510
- Immaculate Conception Parish Food Pantry (Clarion) - 814-226-8433
- Salvation Army - Clarion Service Center - 814-226-8131
- Feeding PA: www.feedingpa.org
- PA Navgate: www.pa-navigate.org
- Utility Assistance (via United Way of Clarion County)
- Neighbor for Neighbor Program - helps with National Fuel bills
- Dollar Energy Fund - assists with West Penn Power, Columbia Gas, and PA American Water - Call 814-226-8760 for appointment assistance
- United for Clarion County Students - United Way and Redbank Valley School District have partnered to help meet students' essential needs - including hygiene products, clothing, and sneakers.
- If you identify a student in need, contact Kyle Hicks (School Counselor/Homeless Liason at Redbank Valley School District). He will connect directly with United Way to provide quick, confidential assistance.
- Clarion County Human Service Resource Directory (via Clarion County's Promise)
- Clarion County Resources List
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