EASTON, Pa. — Easton City Council members collected truckloads of groceries and donations during a food drive at the Easton Farmers’ Market on Saturday, supporting residents affected by a temporary pause in SNAP benefits.
Councilwoman Crystal Rose and Councilman Frank Pintabone organized the drive, with Councilman Ken Brown and other local officials assisting at a collection tent in front of the Larry Holmes statue. The event ran from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Market-goers donated fresh produce, nonperishables, snacks, condiments, grocery gift cards and contributions to the Easton Farmers’ Market SNAP program. All items will be distributed to The Neighborhood Center and ProJeCt of Easton food pantries.
Rose said she had heard from residents concerned about feeding their families during the benefits freeze and hoped the community would respond.
“We had such a great turnout,” Rose said. “I’m just so thankful for everyone coming out to support our neighbors who are in need right now. Easton always shows up and my heart is so full right now, thank you guys so much.”
By the end of the market, donations filled two pickup trucks — including the backseats and beds — and one SUV packed to capacity. No weight or item count was available.
Due to the volume of donations, the Easton City Highway Department stepped in to help transport the food to the pantries.
“Easton and the Lehigh Valley, you guys showed up again, made us proud again,” Pintabone said. “You’re gonna see that we filled two trucks, one car — it was amazing today. Thank you all so much. Everybody appreciates you. Our neighbors appreciate you. Great job again to everybody that came down and donated food.”
Rose said holding the drive at the market made donating more accessible, allowing shoppers to buy from local farmers and immediately contribute the items.
City officials said they expect to hold another drive during the winter farmers’ market next month.