SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - As delays in federal SNAP benefits leave many families struggling to access food, the United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) is expanding its direct service efforts to meet the surge in local demand.

The organization announced this week that it is providing emergency food through two community pantries in Springfield and Holyoke, in addition to more than 27 partner agencies operating UWPV micro-pantries across the region.

On Tuesday alone, the UWPV Springfield Cupboard at 1441 Main St. served 618 individuals — a 30% increase compared to previous Tuesdays.

“This demand is unprecedented, but we are ready,” said UWPV CEO Megan Moynihan. “We have been preparing for this moment for years, moving our United Way more toward a direct service model so we could more fully

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