County reports $1.33 million in DCED grants to food-security programs amid federal cuts

County staff told the Northampton County Council Economic Development Committee on Aug. 7 that the county and related departments have directed more than $1.3 million in local grants to food-security organizations and that local food hubs are experiencing severe pressure from federal funding reductions.
“Tina Smith, director of community economic development, said the county’s Grow Norco grants delivered $135,000 through 2024, and that across programs the county’s support totals $1,329,000,” Smith told the committee. She added that Human Services contracts for 2025–26 total $511,400, mainly for Meals on Wheels and related senior and hunger services.
Smith listed award examples by year. For 2021 she cited grants including $300,000 for Second Harvest food-hub equipment, $50,000 to the Kellen Foundation for equipment, and multiple school-district and shelter food-purchase awards. For 2023 she noted additional Second Harvest awards (including $300,000 for a phase 2 hub completion) and several Meals on Wheels awards. For 2025 she listed smaller awards to school districts, food hubs and shelters and named a Western Area Food Hub in Northampton Borough for a $25,000 food-purchase award.
Smith said the county’s phones are “ringing” from agencies seeking help. She warned that the Second Harvest Food Bank and other food hubs “are really hurting” and that demand outstrips available resources. Smith told commissioners she has been meeting with local food banks, including Nazareth Food Bank, and that county staff will continue outreach and coordination.
Committee members asked what the county can do next. Smith discussed possible future convenings and noted the county’s grant history and coordination with regional partners. No formal new funding decision or motion was recorded in the committee meeting transcript.
County staff and commissioners said they will continue outreach to Second Harvest and local food banks and consider collaborative responses ahead of the school year, when demand for child-focused meal programs typically rises.