We’ve received lots of questions about our funding sources, our work with refugee and immigrant neighbors, and how recent executive orders might impact our programming. While we don’t have all the answers, here is what we know.
Are federal funding freezes affecting SHIM?
We do not receive any direct federal funding. Support for our programs comes from individuals, community groups, foundations, and congregations. We also receive contracted funding from Allegheny County’s Department of Human Services (DHS).
Since Allegheny County DHS receives federal funding which they pass along to contractors like us, funding cuts may trickle down and affect our contracts. Similarly, we receive significant support from the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (GPCFB), who receives federal funding to support their work. If they experience cuts in funding, those effects may impact our ability to purchase sufficient food to feed the thousands of neighbors relying on our food pantries.
Do you anticipate increased need in the community?
In our fifty-seven-year history, we have experienced ups and downs in local need, but the overwhelming trend has been an increase in need. As the cost of food, fuel, and housing continues to outpace salaries, especially for low-wage workers, the need in our community continues to climb. We’ve seen a 21% increase in pantry attendance over the last two years, and that’s after pantry attendance doubled between 2019-2022. Approximately 8,500 of our neighbors need our help each year! We anticipate that need in our area will remain steady or continue to increase in the coming year.
What changes are you seeing for the immigrant and refugee families in our area?
Some of our immigrant and refugee neighbors are feeling scared and nervous. Local resettlement agencies are losing funding and cutting programs. We’re preparing to offer additional support to the refugee and immigrant families who we serve.
We don’t collect any information about legal status and do not anticipate collecting this information as a requirement for accessing our programs. We remain committed to helping all families in need in the South Hills suburbs of Pittsburgh. 
How can I help?
We rely on generous neighbors like you to support our holistic programming. As funding sources become more vulnerable, we hope that individuals, community groups, and congregations will help fill the gap. We know our neighbors are dedicated to building a community where everyone can thrive. Whether you’re volunteering your time or giving a financial gift, your support directly impacts our South Hills neighbors.
We’re committed to helping local residents and feel confident that neighbors like you will ensure our ability to keep our doors open for all our neighbors in need.
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