During September’s Hunger Action Month, food banks across Southwestern Pennsylvania are sounding the alarm that food insecurity has climbed to levels last seen during the COVID‑19 pandemic. In Washington County, one in eight residents now struggles to put meals on the table.
Sharp Rise in Demand
Greater Washington County Food Bank President and CEO George Omiros described the need as “acute at this point,” noting that the county’s poverty rate exceeds the state average. Of the roughly 20,950 people identified as food‑insecure, 20% are children and 30% are seniors.
Data from the Pittsburgh Food Bank show a 40% increase in individuals seeking assistance in Greene County and a 17.9% rise in Washington County between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026.
Local Challenges Amplify the Crisis
Omiros highlighted persistent economic hurdles that hit rural families hardest, including food deserts, limited public transportation, and high unemployment and under‑employment rates. These factors combine to push more families toward charitable food sites.
Community Response
The Greater Washington County Food Bank distributed more than 1.8 million pounds of food last year, focusing on fresh produce, dairy, and other nutritious items. The organization operates ten pantry locations, 18 senior‑food‑box sites, and partners with DoorDash to deliver meals to seniors.
Hunger Action Month encourages residents to wear orange, the campaign’s signature color, and to donate—especially monetary contributions, which Omiros says can be leveraged to purchase three times as much food per dollar.
How You Can Help
- Donate money or non‑perishable foods to local food banks.
- Volunteer to sort donations, pack emergency boxes, or deliver meals.
- Advocate for policies that protect access to nutritious food for families and seniors.
By coming together, Washington and Greene County residents can ensure that every neighbor has equitable access to the nourishment they need.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
