Food insecurity is often indicative of instability
Food insecurity continues to affect families across the South Hills, often as the result of rising costs and ongoing economic instability. For many neighbors, the need for food assistance is not a one-time crisis but par t of a larger struggle to make ends meet.
In November, SHIM saw a sharp increase in pantry attendance as many households experienced delays in receiving SNAP benefits. This surge underscored how quickly disruptions to public benefits can push already vulnerable neighbors into crisis.
As a mom of three, it’s not always easy to keep enough food on the table. At SHIM, we found not only food, but foods that feel familiar— along with diapers and baby formula our family needs. The kindness and support have meant so much to us.
Recent changes to SNAP eligibility have reduced resources for many households facing food insecurity, forcing families to choose between groceries and other basic needs as food prices remain high. Demand for food pantries and emergency assistance has increased.
1,186,640
1,186,640
We are committed to removing barriers and expanding access so every neighbor in need can receive the support they deserve.
This year, we installed temperaturecontrolled food lockers at the SHIM Center in Bethel Park, expanding dignified access to fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable food beyond traditional pantry hours.
Our work goes beyond food assistance to address barriers to long-term stability. Through utility assistance, emergency grants, and personalized self-sufficiency coaching, we help neighbors regain their footing and move toward lasting security. clients served 300+
calls/referrals for help 1,624 of emergency grants, nearly double last year’s total $210,332 mobility mentoring clients enrolled 10
I’m motivated to be a better mother and woman. SHIM gives me great advice and encouragement for setting myself up for self-sufficiency. I can finally pay my bills on time each month with the help of these programs.
Youth Programs
This year brought significant growth to our youth programs as we adapted to the needs shared by students and families. We achieved state licensing for our early childhood program, expanded after-school capacity for students in grades 1–5, and enhanced teen mentoring with more groups, clubs, and a stronger focus on post–high school readiness. In May, we celebrated the graduation of our first SHIM Scholars cohort, with 100% of seniors continuing on to higher education—including one student attending Yale.
kids served across all youth programs 500+
teens attended Youth Mentoring 201 students participated in Learn and Earn 13 students participated in SHIM Scholars 19
students attended college visits 35
100%+
increase in monthly attendance beginning in 25-26 school year
of students qualify for free or reducedcost lunches 93%
SHIM’s youth programs support children from preschool through high school graduation—strengthening academic success, social development, and readiness for what comes next. By providing safe, enriching spaces to learn and grow, these programs support working families and strengthen a family’s ability to achieve long-term economic stability.
As a parent, it’s overwhelming to juggle work and everything my kids need. SHIM has been there for all three of my children—from preschool to high school—and I can’t express how grateful I am for the care, support, and encouragement they receive.
SHIM Family Center – West Mifflin
SHIM’s Family Center reflects more than two decades of growth and commitment to families. What began in 2002 as a small apartmentbased preschool has expanded to include parenting education, food access, and in-home family support. After years of operating in apartments and later at Wallace School, SHIM now has a safe, accessible, purpose-built Family Center in West Mifflin—designed to offer dignity, stability, and a welcoming space for families and staff.
contributed a total of $2.68 million 1,586 supporters
As part of Allegheny County’s Family Center network, this location expands access across the South Hills and strengthens SHIM’s holistic approach, supporting parents, children, and family stability. This investment is a key step in SHIM’s long-term vision to grow impact and ensure families can thrive for years to come.
From small, recurring gifts to major investments, every contribution plays a vital role in sustaining our programs and responding to growing needs in the community. Together, these gifts provide more than financial support—they offer hope, stability, and reassurance to the neighbors and families who rely on SHIM during challenging times.
The parenting class gave me tools, but the home visits showed me I wasn’t alone. Having someone meet us where we live helped me feel more confident and supported as a parent.
SHIM’s work is sustained by a broad and generous community of supporters. This year, 1,586 supporters contributed a total of $2.68 million, with individuals forming the largest base of support.
Volunteers are the heart of SHIM’s work, making it possible to serve our neighbors with care, dignity, and consistency. From stocking food pantries and packing food orders to mentoring youth and supporting programs behind the scenes, volunteers extend our reach and deepen our impact. Their generosity of time and talent strengthens our community and ensures that SHIM’s services remain responsive, welcoming, and rooted in compassion.
306 volunteers 18,396 hours
$34.79
SHIM is committed to inclusive volunteerism and proudly partners with agencies serving individuals with disabilities. These volunteers bring valuable skills and perspective, strengthening our programs and reinforcing our belief that community support is strongest when it is accessible to all.
The volunteers at SHIM treated me with kindness and respect when I needed it most. I’ll never forget how supportive they were.
Looking Ahead…together.
Over the past several years, SHIM has intentionally strengthened its organization to better serve families across the South Hills. Your generosity fueled the success of the Do More Good campaign, which raised $6.8 million during the pandemic and allowed SHIM to expand services, respond to unprecedented need, and plan for sustainable growth.
In 2025, SHIM supported more than 9,000 neighbors through food access, family support, and youth programs. SHIM generated $12.8 million in community benefit while operating from a position of financial stability and trust.1
But our community’s needs are great, and many people, unfortunately, continue to struggle in silence. We are ready to meet those growing needs, while remaining rooted in dignity, respect and nurturing relationships.
Over the coming year, we will look for opportunities to increase our impact, help more of our neighbors, and partner with organizations that share our values. Good grows here, and we will continue to cultivate it – together.
SHIM helped us move from surviving to planning for the future. Because of supporters like you, SHIM will be here well into the future for the South Hills.
¹ SHIM Economic and Social Impact Study conducted by Tripp Umbach.
