United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation recently launched the Critical Support Fund to tackle rising food and emergency service needs. Since its start on October 30, over 75 businesses and donors have contributed more than $600,000, allowing local partners to quickly support families and food providers.
On November 18, during a news conference with Community Action Lehigh Valley and Second Harvest Food Bank, the organizations updated the community on their efforts. Marci Lesko, the president and CEO of United Way, emphasized the community’s readiness to help, saying, “When people in our community need help, the Greater Lehigh Valley shows up.”
With the funds, bulk orders of produce, rice, and canned goods have been placed through Second Harvest Food Bank, reaching over 100 food pantries in the area. They also secured meat supplies from local farmers to help meet protein needs. Erika Riddle Petrozelli, president and CEO of LVCF, added that this initiative showcases the community’s strength and commitment to supporting those in need.
Dawn Godshall, CEO of Community Action Lehigh Valley, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, especially as many families face reduced SNAP benefits, increasing food insecurity. She noted the Critical Support Fund acts as a vital lifeline for the community.
Efforts are also underway to coordinate volunteer support and training for pantry staff. The fund’s primary focus is on immediate food needs but is designed to adapt for future emergencies, like housing assistance or winter warmth initiatives.
This initiative reflects a broader trend: local communities banding together to support each other during tough times. Recent surveys indicate that 29% of Americans report struggling with food security, showing how critical these efforts are. As the landscape of community support evolves, efforts like the Critical Support Fund highlight the importance of collaboration in addressing pressing needs.
As the situation develops, United Way and LVCF will keep reassessing community needs to ensure timely assistance reaches those who need it most. For more details on the fund, you can contact Erin Connelly at United Way or Erika Riddle Petrozelli at the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation.
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