Malagari announces availability of state funding to support local projects focused on food insecurity
Rep. Steve Malagari February 9, 2026 | 11:03 AM
LANSDALE, Feb. 9 – State Rep. Steve Malagari, D-Montgomery, announced today that over $80,000 in state funding will be allocated to local nonprofits dedicated to combating food insecurity.
The grants were made possible by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection as part of a larger $4.1 million statewide investment in the Food Recovery Infrastructure Grant Program. This funding is awarded to reimburse the cost of equipment like refrigerators, freezers, refrigerated and non-refrigerated vehicles, stoves, and microwaves to store, transport, or prepare recovered, safe and fresh food to ensure it can be redistributed to the public.
Studies show that more than one-third of the U.S. food supply is wasted before it ever reaches consumers. Meanwhile, 1 in 7 households experience food insecurity, lacking consistent access to enough affordable, nutritious food. The FRIG Program works to redirect food at risk of going to waste to those who need it most, addressing food insecurity while keeping a significant amount of food out of landfills.
“This program represents the type of policy solution I’ve championed since I was first elected,” Malagari said. “It addresses the challenge of food insecurity while also building community and reducing waste. This funding brings us one step closer to eradicating food insecurity across our community.”
Three community-based organizations in the 53rd Legislative District have been awarded funding under this program since its inception, totaling more than $80,000. Awards include $49,224 to Manna on Main Street, $12,586 to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, and $19,357 to Garden of Health Inc.
Malagari said any organization considering applying to the FRIG Program may reach out to his office at 267-768-3671 or RepMalagri@pahouse.net for support, if needed.