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Council discusses SNAP interruptions; Public Works to distribute hot meals starting Nov. 7

Harrisburg City Council · October 29, 2025

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Summary

Council members raised concerns about SNAP benefit disruptions tied to a federal shutdown; Councilman Ralph Rodriguez announced a monthly hot meal distribution beginning Nov. 7 and a free tire‑recycling event in mid‑November.

Council members raised questions Oct. 28 about the potential local effects of a federal shutdown on SNAP benefits and discussed options for municipal response.

Council President Danielle L. Hill and administration staff said the city has statutory authority under its enumerated powers to distribute surplus food in emergencies but that implementation would require mayoral direction and identification of funding sources. Hill said emergency action could require an executive order and council resolutions to reallocate funds and that the mechanics depend on available resources.

In response to immediate needs, Councilman Ralph Rodriguez announced that the Public Works Committee will begin distributing hot meals the first Friday of each month, starting Nov. 7, at the Harrisburg Public Works Building, 1820 Paxton St. Recipients should present a SNAP EBT card and Pennsylvania ID for a drive‑up distribution; the program is a collaboration with Uncle Dre’s Cafe and Crawdaddy’s.

Rodriguez also announced a free tire recycling event in partnership with Dauphin County and the NAACP on Nov. 17–21 at 1625 South Cameron St.; residents are limited to eight tires and must be Dauphin County residents. Rodriguez said the council intends the meal distribution to continue until SNAP benefits resume or the city establishes a broader plan.