For Immediate Release
February 23, 2011
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Brubaker Legislation Would Dedicate Funding to Food Banks

HARRISBURG – Sen. Mike Brubaker (R-36) re-introduced legislation today that would dedicate existing state tax credits to regional food banks.

Senate Bill 634 would require the Department of Community and Economic Development to give special consideration to food banks when considering applications for the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP). The NAP program offers tax credits to serve as incentives for businesses to contribute to worthy causes in the community, such as food banks, affordable housing, crime prevention, education and job training.

"The Neighborhood Assistance Program provides essential funding to ensure that food banks can continue to help those in need," said Brubaker, who co-chairs the legislative Hunger Caucus. "The recession has drastically increased demand for services at food banks throughout the state, so it is important to ensure that they have access to the resources they need to continue serving our communities."

Recent revisions to NAP have made it increasingly difficult for Pennsylvania's food banks to compete for funding. NAP tax credits allocated to Pennsylvania food banks dropped from $4.2 million in 2008-09 to $2.8 million in 2009-10. Brubaker's legislation would ensure that the incentive for businesses to offer substantial donations of food and funds under NAP will continue.

"Tax credits from the Neighborhood Assistance Program provide the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank with an essential tool to urge food donors to provide us with quality donations," said Central Pennsylvania Food Bank Executive Director Kendall Hannah. "We have seen a dramatic increase in need in the state of Pennsylvania over the past few years, coupled with a downward trend in corporate food donations. NAP tax credits are a cornerstone of our ability to meet that demand with nutritious food vital for families struggling with hunger in our communities."

CONTACT:

Kristin Crawford
(717) 787-4420