PA Food Supply Is 'Reliable, Accessible, Life-Sustaining:' Wolf

PENNSYLVANIA — Sunday, Gov. Tom Wolf and First Lady Frances Wolf said the state's food supply is reliable, accessible, and life-sustaining.

The governor and his wife reminded residents Sunday that grocery stores, food processors, and food banks remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic and the administration is working to expand resources for those who are food insecure.

In the announcement Sunday, they said Pennsylvanians should feel confident in the food supply and shop for food at their normal rate.

"Even in a pandemic, grocery stores and food banks are life-sustaining and accessible; food production and distribution are continuing," Wolf said. "I urge all Pennsylvanians to have faith in our food system. If each one of us commits to only buy what we need; there will be enough for everyone and their neighbors.

"COVID-19 does not change the need for food production; but rather it highlights the importance of our essential agriculture industry for providing a safe, continuous food supply," Wolf said. "I’m incredibly proud of and grateful for this dedicated industry. These times will pass; but in the meantime, you can know that they’re working hard and making smart decisions to fill the shelves of your local grocer."

Wolf earlier this week ordered all non-life-sustaining businesses closed. Closures were to begin Saturday but Wolf delayed the order until 8 a.m. Monday.

The extension came after the state got such a high volume of waiver requests.

See the full list of businesses below:

Businesses needing clarification on whether they are defined as life-sustaining should email the Department of Community and Economic Development at ra-dcedcs@pa.gov, or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH and select option 1 to reach DCED staff.

Businesses who would like to apply for a waiver can do so online here.

When a business completes a waiver form, state officials will review each request and respond. Those requesting a waiver will be notified via email if their operations are permitted to re-open.

Businesses applying for a waiver must remain closed until a decision is made about their application, the governor's office said.

As of Saturday, the state had a total of 371 cases of the coronavirus. Two people have died.