Philly launches $600K emergency grants to aid small grocers hit by SNAP shutdown

Philadelphia officials announced a $600,000 emergency grant program aimed at helping small food retailers, corner stores, and grocers weather the financial strain caused by the federal government shutdown and interruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced in October that SNAP payments were suspended due to the federal government shutdown. City and state officials moved quickly to bolster food banks and direct emergency funding to the program, but many enrollees still went without benefits for weeks.

About 472,000 Philadelphians, or 30% of the city’s population, are enrolled in SNAP, which stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and was previously known as food stamps.

“Small food retailers are the lifelines of our neighborhoods — places where families shop, gather, and rely on for essentials,” said Karen Fegley, Acting Commerce Director. “We are taking action with a One Philly approach to ensure they can continue serving their communities.” 

City officials said the grants will prioritize locally owned stores in neighborhoods most affected by SNAP disruptions. The funds are intended to help business owners offset immediate financial hits, keep workers on payroll and maintain inventory needed to provide essential access to food. The grant program is funded through the Department of Commerce and administered by The Merchants Fund. 

Jill Fink, executive director of The Merchants Fund, said the support is critical as small retailers navigate the economic shock.

“Philadelphia’s corner stores and small grocers are more than businesses — they’re anchors of community life and essential partners in food security. Through this collaboration with the City, we’re ensuring that small business owners have the immediate support they need.”

The $600,000 grant pool includes $100,000 contributed by the Barra Foundation. Applications are open through Dec. 31 on the Merchants Fund website. Priority will go to small, locally owned retailers operating in low-income neighborhoods.

The Merchants Fund is also accepting additional donations to bolster its relief efforts.

Have any questions, comments, or concerns about this story? Send an email to editors@kensingtonvoice.com. Or call/text the editors desk line at ‪(215) 385-3115‬.