NEPA Leaders Unite for Open Forum on Hunger Crisis

Regional leaders, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and elected officials are invited to participate in a structured open forum addressing critical hunger challenges facing Northeastern Pennsylvania. The event will take place on Nov. 11, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the King's College McGowan School of Business Auditorium.

The forum comes at a critical time for the region. Pennsylvania has been without a state budget for over 100 days, leaving numerous nonprofits and social services without essential funding. With federal gridlock continuing and SNAP benefits ending, local organizations are struggling to meet community needs.

The open forum aims to unite community stakeholders to share innovative solutions and collaborative approaches to address these mounting challenges. Organizers are calling for creative thinking and bold ideas from all sectors of the community.

"This is a moment for our community to be innovative. We must rethink past approaches to achieve lasting change. By collaborating with local nonprofits, we can secure stronger funding and develop long-term solutions that will strengthen our community. We're pursuing systemic transformation, not just quick fixes, "said Clancy Harrison, founder of the Food Dignity Movement. 

Attendees are encouraged to bring innovative solutions and fresh perspectives to the discussion. The forum will recognize the top five ideas with Gerrity’s gift cards, with organizers emphasizing that no idea is too unconventional or ambitious. Participants can submit ideas during the event or in advance via email to Clancy@ClancyHarrison.com.

The event welcomes leaders from all backgrounds, including nonprofit directors, business executives, elected officials, and engaged community members. Organizers emphasize that participants should focus on solutions rather than politics or blame, creating a constructive environment for meaningful dialogue.

Parking will be available in the Holy Cross lot, with signage provided to guide attendees. Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP and bring colleagues who may contribute valuable perspectives to the conversation.

King’s Shoval Center has helped find solutions to community problems for 20 years by using the expertise, resources and volunteers of the College. “We are again proud to provide a forum for stakeholders to discuss the area’s hunger crisis,” said Bill Bolan, Ph.D., Shoval Center Director.  

Based in Forty Fort, PA, the Food Dignity Movement (FDM) has partnered with King's Shoval Center for Community Engagement to host community Think Tanks for the last five years. The FDM works with local farmers, townships, and nonprofits to build a resilient local food system, ensuring nutrition security for future generations.

For more information or to RSVP:
Clancy Harrison
570-881-0683
Clancy@ClancyHarrison.com