Recently, members of the Gray Ribbon Riders teamed up with Simplicity Hair Salon to support the Pennsylvania Avenue Interfaith Food Pantry (PAIFP). They gathered at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Allentown to deliver much-needed donations.
The PAIFP started 14 years ago during the 2009 economic recession, formed by four local congregations: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Notre Dame Catholic Church, St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, and the Unitarian Universalist Church. This pantry helps individuals and families, mainly in West Bethlehem, East Allentown, and parts of Catasauqua.
Every month, on the first and third Wednesdays, the pantry gives out food, with different churches helping each time. They source food donations either directly or through Second Harvest Food Bank, a critical provider for pantries in the Greater Lehigh Valley.
The Gray Ribbon Riders, which is not a motorcycle club but a community-focused group, was a key player in the donation drive. They unite riders of various vehicles to raise awareness and funds for pediatric brain tumor organizations, fostering a spirit of community and service.
Simplicity Hair Salon, owned by Jennifer Rodriguez, also contributed significantly. Located in Bethlehem, the salon has a history of supporting local shelters and welcomed donations for the food pantry.
Leaders at the PAIFP expressed gratitude for the help from the salon and riding group.
In other news, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is welcoming new leadership. The Rev. Valerie Bailey now oversees both St. Andrew’s and St. George’s Episcopal Church in Hellertown. Before moving to Pennsylvania, she was a chaplain at Williams College in Massachusetts, where she engaged with students from varied backgrounds about faith and community building.
With her extensive experience and strong commitment to social justice, Bailey brings fresh energy to her new role. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Penn State and a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary, along with a dissertation focused on Anglican studies.
Community support like this is vital, especially as food insecurity rises. According to recent statistics from Feeding America, about 1 in 9 people in the U.S. face hunger. Initiatives like the PAIFP’s make a significant difference in local lives, reminding us of the power of community.
Events like these highlight the positive impact that local organizations and individuals can have when they come together. It’s inspiring to see people step up, whether they’re delivering food or leading a church. Community involvement truly makes a difference.
For more about food insecurity and ways to help, you can check out Feeding America’s resources here.
