A Lifeline for Delaware County: Rapid Response Fund Provides Critical Support Amid Crises
In the face of mounting challenges, including stalled SNAP benefits and economic instability, Delaware County’s nonprofit sector found a crucial ally in two local philanthropic organizations. The Foundation for Delaware County and The Community’s Foundation responded swiftly with emergency funding to help struggling families.
In November 2025, these organizations activated the Delaware County Rapid Response Fund, aiming to mitigate the impacts of federal funding cuts, a government shutdown, and delays in state budget approvals. The closure of Crozer Health further compounded the crisis, necessitating immediate intervention.
Support poured in from 17 anonymous donors, 10 organizations, and 56 individuals, helping to bolster the fund’s resources.
A Critical Need for Immediate Action
By late 2025, the situation in Delaware County had become dire, with families facing healthcare gaps, housing instability, and food insecurity. Nonprofits were stretched thin, and the suspension of SNAP benefits triggered a call for rapid action.
The Rapid Response Fund was initially seeded with $25,000 from each foundation. The Saunders House Foundation led additional contributions with a $50,000 grant. Over 30 organizations applied for grants within the first week.
“In the fall of 2025, our community faced a critical moment,” remarked Michael Kellerman and Dierdre Konar, presidents of The Foundation for Delaware County and The Community’s Foundation, respectively. “Families across Delaware County were already grappling with significant challenges.”
To date, $150,000 in grants has been distributed to 25 nonprofits throughout the county.
Distribution of Funds
From the $146,700 dispensed by the Rapid Response Fund, 67% was allocated to food security, amounting to $98,700. Basic needs received 23% ($33,000), while housing stability was supported with 10% ($15,000).
Perspectives from Beneficiaries
The Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County was among the recipients, receiving $10,000 for emergency housing support after a funding loss from FEMA. Executive Director Michelle Brown highlighted the importance of these funds in maintaining mortgage payments for their emergency safe house.
Murphy’s Giving Market, awarded $9,000, experienced a surge in demand due to rising food costs and SNAP changes. Executive Director Desiree Murphy Morrissey stated, “The Rapid Response Fund grant arrived at a critical moment… It reinforced our role as a lifeline and a place of dignity, respect, and stability for our community.”
The Grant Recipients
Health Educated, Inc. — $5,000 To support families impacted by SNAP delays via grocery gift cards.
Imago Dei Metropolitan Community Church — DELCO Food Project — $4,200 To replenish non-perishable foods due to federal funding cuts.
AFA Agency: All For All Agency — $5,000 For emergency food assistance in the William Penn School District.
BFRIN — $4,000 To provide essential food through weekly pantries in several locations.
Caring for Friends — $5,000 To restock partner pantries and Homebound Meals recipients.
CCSA Foundation — $5,000 For emergency food aid amidst SNAP benefit reductions.
Chester Eastside, Inc. — $5,000 To combat food insecurity in Delaware County.
Chester Housing Initiative, Inc. — $10,000 To expand food box provisions for families.
Community Action Agency of Delaware County, Inc. (CAADC) — $5,000 To increase support for the food pantry.
Delco Helping Hands Association — $5,000 To bolster support for food-insecure families.
Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County, Inc. — $10,000 For emergency housing support, covering mortgage payments for a safe house.
Drexel Neumann Academy — $5,000 To support student food needs.
Family Support Line — $5,000 To maintain essential services amidst government fund losses.
Feeding The 4,000 — $2,500 To sustain and expand food services during economic disruptions.
Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, Prospect Hill Baptist Church — $5,000 To provide protein-rich foods.
Making a Change Group — $7,000 To supply healthy meals and grocery cards.
Maternity Care Coalition — $5,000 For support due to government shutdown and SNAP disruptions.
Media Food Bank — $5,000 To purchase food and essentials amid the economic crisis.
Multicultural Community Family Services — $9,000 For nutritious food purchases and delivery.
Murphy’s Giving Market — $9,000 For food purchases to meet increased demand.
Neighbor to Neighbor Community Dev. Corp. — $5,000 To buy and distribute perishable and non-perishable foods.
Operation LookForward, Inc. — $5,000 To support seniors with food and essential supplies.
Rising Hope For Change — $5,000 To address food and housing instability.
Stepnup Mentoring and Community Interactions — $3,000 To expand free meal programs.
The Minority Center for Participation and Empowerment — $5,000 To provide basic needs amidst food and housing instability.
Trinity Transitional House Inc. — $5,000 To offer temporary housing for those facing homelessness.
Work of Faith Community Development Corp. — $3,000 To supply food, household items, and referrals.
A Sustained Commitment
Kellerman and Konar emphasize that the Rapid Response Fund is a permanent fixture, ready to assist in future crises. “The Rapid Response Fund is not going away. It will be available when the next crisis impacts our community,” they affirmed.
For more information or to contribute, visit delcofoundation.org.
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