The emergency assistance line keeps ringing for the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Over 47,000 calls through PA 211 have been made to the organization this year. Jen Schuchart, director of basic needs at the United Way, said they have seen a 16% increase in calls relating to food assistance and a 27% increase in calls related to SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, compared to 2024.
Through several partner agencies, the organization connects community members with resources to address food insecurity, transportation issues and household repairs…