Pennsylvania Agriculture Department visits Greater Washington Food Bank

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture (PDA), as part of its Planting the Seed Tour, recently visited the Greater Washington County Food Bank to learn how agriculture technology can eliminate hunger in southwestern Pennsylvania.

The food bank’s 22-acre farm uses the latest evidence-based farming practices to educate the community while providing fresh food, to employ residents, create agricultural and economic development, and use innovative ways to serve those at risk for hunger.

Every month, the food bank distributes free food packages to approximately 5,000 Washington County families that fall within the 150 percent of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines.

“The Greater Washington County Food Bank’s commitment to the community benefits residents in tangible, meaningful ways, and that commitment was on full display today,” state Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “Using resources to feed the food insecure, using technology to engage youth, and using partnerships to expand their reach — these are all the ways that their work has a direct impact on neighbors and community members.”

The Planting the Seed Tour’s goal is to inform young people about the many educational and career opportunities available in agriculture. As the agricultural workforce ages over the next decade, there will be a workforce deficit of nearly 75,000.