Commissioners allocate funding amid federal shutdown – Bucks Round-Up – November 7, 2025

Commissioners allocate funding amid federal shutdown

With the ongoing federal government shutdown disrupting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Bucks County officials are stepping in to support residents facing food insecurity. At Thursday’s meeting, the Bucks County Commissioners voted to direct $150,000 in emergency funding to two local nonprofits. The Bucks County Foundation will receive $100,000, while the Bucks County Opportunity Council (BCOC) will receive $50,000. Commissioners Chair Bob Harvie said the funds, distributed through the county’s Department of Human Services, aim to fill critical gaps as demand surges. Mandy Mundy, Executive Director of the Bucks County Foundation, urged both individuals and businesses to help. “There are many ways to support,” she said. “Donate to the Bucks County Impact Fund, host a food drive, volunteer, but now is the time to do something.” BCOC Executive Director Erin Lukoss said area food pantries are seeing record demand. “We’re seeing families visit pantries for the first time, working parents, seniors, and neighbors who simply can’t keep up with the rising cost of food, housing, and utilities,” she said. Donations can be made at buckscountyfoundation.org and bcoc.org.

Bensalem secures federal grant to hire firefighters

Bensalem Township will add four new career firefighters thanks to a federal SAFER Grant from FEMA, officials announced this week. Public Safety Director Bill McVey said the three-year grant will fund the positions without increasing local taxes. “This is a huge deal for Bensalem,” McVey said. The township completed a fire department consolidation in 2024, and the new hires are expected to join the department in January 2026.

Upper Southampton woman charged in vehicle assault

Upper Southampton Township Police have arrested a woman accused of intentionally striking a pedestrian with her vehicle following a verbal altercation on Street Road. The incident occurred on November 4 around 11:30 a.m. Police said the driver, identified as Linda Eckert, fled the scene but was later taken into custody. She faces charges including aggravated assault and related offenses.

Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490.