Author | Lightnews

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 2h

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. If you are feeling alone, scared, or unsafe because of a partner or family member, you are not alone. Help is available.

Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or chat online: thehotline.org.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. You are not alone. Help is available. Call the 24/7 National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or chat online: thehotline.org.

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 1d

Due to Federal Government Shutdown, Opening of the 2025-26 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Season Delayed to December: bit.ly/474wRMV

Due to the federal government shutdown, Pennsylvania must delay the opening of the 2025-26 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) season by one month, until December 3, 2025, because the Department of Human Services (DHS) has not yet received its federal allocation for 2025-2026 LIHEAP funds.

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 1d

DHS will never ask for personal information in an unsolicited text message, email, or phone call.

Please report any texts or calls about DHS benefits that seem suspicious by calling the DHS fraud tip line at 1-844-DHS-TIPS (1-844-347-8477).

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 1d

🚨 SNAP clients are receiving calls from the numbers listed below saying that their benefits are on hold until they verify their eligibility and asking that they call and provide their PIN. This is a SCAM.

1-888-239-7710
1-888-272-8720
1-888-737-6551

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 2d

Due to Federal Shutdown, November SNAP Payments Will Not be Made to Nearly Two Million Pennsylvanians: bit.ly/4nmrdKZ

On October 10, USDA notified states that it will
be unable to fully fund November SNAP benefits because of the federal shutdown. Since its inception in 1964, the federal government has fully funded SNAP, distributing more than $366 million every month to Pennsylvania.

At this time, no SNAP benefits will be issued until a budget or continuing resolution is passed by Congress.

Despite the ongoing shutdown, SNAP recipients with unspent funds on their EBT cards will still be able to use these funds. SNAP benefits do not expire at the end of each month and are able to be spent for a calendar year.

DHS strongly encourages SNAP recipients to keep their card locked with the ConnectEBT app or website at connectebt.com to protect their benefits when the card is not in use.

DHS will continue to process applications for SNAP and other benefits during the shutdown.

Recipients should continue to report case changes, submit any semi-annual reviews or renewals they receive during this period, and update their cases for the new federal work reporting requirements that start November 1 to not risk an interruption of their benefits in the future.

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 6d

Food banks are a lifeline for many families and individuals in Pennsylvania.

Let's support our local food banks during National Food Bank Week and every week, and help build a healthier, stronger Pennsylvania.

Find ways to support your local food bank: FeedingPA.org.

National Food Bank Week
Support your local food banks to help build a healthier, stronger Pennsylvania

Graphic shows a Pennsylvania state shape with a heart made of illustrated grains and vegetables inside

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 7d

Don’t take any chances – “Lock Everywhere" and maximize your protection today. Download the free, secure ConnectEBT mobile app or visit connectebt.com to get started.

connectebt.com

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 7d

Locking your EBT card everywhere when not in use maximizes protection of your SNAP and cash benefits from skimming and theft in PA, out of state, and online.

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 7d

Did you know that the only way to fully lock your EBT card is through ConnectEBT? The “Lock Everywhere” option is the best way to protect your benefits!

Graphic with the ConnectEBT and locking icons emphasizing the app. Pennsylvania, protect your benefits! Lock Everywhere with ConnectEBT! Maximize your protection using “Lock Everywhere” on the ConnectEBT app or website. The “Lock Everywhere” feature is only available through ConnectEBT! Download the free, secure ConnectEBT mobile app or visit connectebt.com to get started.

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 7d

No Pennsylvanian should go hungry. If you are struggling, don't hesitate to get help. Find resources:

🥗 dhs.pa.gov/SNAP
🤝 pa-navigate.org
🥫 feedingpa.org
🍎 dhs.pa.gov/Ending-Hunger
🍼 pawic.com

#WorldFoodDay

Graphic with a plate and various food items. Text reads: No Pennsylvanian should go hungry. Find resources: dhs.pa.gov/SNAP pa-navigate.org feedingpa.org dhs.pa.gov/Ending-Hunger pawic.com

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 8d

It's National Food Bank Week! Let's celebrate the incredible work of food banks across PA that tirelessly provide nourishment and support to those in need. Together, we can make a difference and make sure everyone has access to nutritious meals.

#NationalFoodBankWeek

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 13d

Small acts of self-care can make a big difference when it comes to your mental health.

🛌 Make sleep a priority
🥗 Eat healthy and stay hydrated
🙏 Practice mindfulness and gratitude
🚶 Exercise regularly
😊 Focus on positivity
🧘‍♀️ Try a relaxing activity

#WorldMentalHealthDay

Self-Care Checklist on a gradient background: Make sleep a priority Eat healthy food and stay hydrated Practice mindfulness and gratitude Exercise regularly Focus on positivity Try a relaxing activity

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 14d

Workplaces are better when they are inclusive, and Pennsylvanians with disabilities can get services & resources to help them find a career they love, including:
⚕️ Benefits counseling
💼 Career Assessments
🔎 Finding a Job
🤝 Job Coaching
➕ and more: dhs.pa.gov/WeCanWork

#NDEAM

Graphic of three people working in an inclusive workplace inside a light blue shape of Pennsylvania on a darker blue background

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 14d

Department of Human Services, IUP Announce Collaboration to Train Future Physicians in Clinical Setting at Warren State Hospital, Address Urgent Need for Rural Health Care Workers: bit.ly/42vEJEG

Department of Human Services, IUP Announce Collaboration to Train Future Physicians in Clinical Setting at Warren State Hospital, Address Urgent Need for Rural Health Care Workers

bit.ly

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 15d

If you or someone you know is being bullied, or you see or hear something that makes you uncomfortable, you can report it anonymously. It's Safe2Say Something!

Safe2SayPA.org

#NationalStopBullyingDay

Home - Safe2Say Something

Safe2Say Something is a youth violence prevention program run by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. The program teaches youth and adults how to recognize warning signs and signals, especiall...

Safe2SayPA.org

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 15d

Bullying can make people feel isolated and increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide -- and has serious and lasting negative effects on the mental health and overall well-being of youth involved.

But we can help stand up for each other at any time.

Graphic of a youth looking a mobile phone with angry emojis Text reads: Help prevent bullying. See it? Report it. Safe2SayPA.org

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 16d

Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat: pa.gov/988

Get Suicide or Mental Health Crisis Help (988)

pa.gov

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 16d

Small acts of daily self-care can make a big difference for your mental health. Practice reacting thoughtfully to help with stress, anxiety, and depression, and be present in the moment.

If you are feeling irritated, consider the source. Is it something you can control?

If so, take small steps to address it. If not, focus instead on letting the irritation go and be kind to yourself.

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 16d

Governor Shapiro has issued a proclamation celebrating the many individuals living and advocating for Down Syndrome. Please join us in acknowledging Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 16d

With medical advancements, increased knowledge and awareness, and early intervention; individuals with Down Syndrome are living longer, more fulfilling lives.

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 16d

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month! Down Syndrome is the most common genetic disorder in the world population. It is estimated that 38% of the population knows someone with Down Syndrome.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month Proclamation

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 17d

Gain real job skills fast with SNAP JETS! Get hands-on training in fields like culinary arts, healthcare, banking, and more—with local support to help you land and keep a job.

Learn more about SNAP JETS: www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs...

Ready for Something New? Free job training and career support. Level up your skills and plan for the future with SNAP JETS. 877-395-8930. Funding provided by United States Department of Agriculture.

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 20d

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or chat: pa.gov/988.

Get Suicide or Mental Health Crisis Help (988)

pa.gov

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 20d

But don't just take it from us, hear directly from the people answering your calls. Here, PA 988 call center professional Cassandra talks about her work in her community call center and the importance of self-care.

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Pennsylvania Department of Human Services @pahumanservices.bsky.social · 20d

Pennsylvania, you have a friend in 988! When you call the 988 Lifeline, your call is answered locally by trained professionals who care.

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