ALLENTOWN, Pa. — New Bethany distributed hundreds of pre-prepared Thanksgiving meals this week to families across the Lehigh Valley, aiming to ensure residents facing food insecurity can still enjoy a holiday meal despite financial instability.
The organization said many households are still recovering from the lingering effects of rising living costs and disruptions caused by recent state and federal budget impasses. The annual Thanksgiving distribution, leaders said, offers comfort at a time when many families are feeling increased strain.
More than 2,000 turkeys were donated to New Bethany through a combination of support from its board of directors, private donors and an annual turkey drive hosted by Provident Bank, Jaindl Farms and the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. The event, known as the Bob Price Memorial Turkey Drive, brought in 2,062 turkeys — surpassing its goal of 2,000.
Jaindl Farms contributed 140 turkeys through its Buy One, Get One program, and additional donations came from Mike Gausling, Steve and Jeanne Follett, Lori Siebert, B. Braun and Vizi. Volunteers and community members also supported the collection.
Marc Rittle, New Bethany’s executive director, said the donations come at a critical time as the organization faces heightened demand and strained resources.
“The stoppage in critical food items, increased requirements to obtain basic government supports, and now the threat and follow-through to suspend SNAP payments has translated to a decrease in our food supply alongside an increase in demand,” Rittle said in a social media post. “This is unsustainable.”
Rittle said staff are battling burnout as they work to meet escalating needs amid rising living costs and limited housing assistance. He noted that many guests experiencing homelessness may also face displacement in December.
Despite the pressure, Rittle said community support in recent weeks — including multiple food drives and a surge in donations — has been meaningful.
“It means people care,” he said. “It means we can buy food wholesale. It means our staff can get paid.”
Founded in 1985, New Bethany provides food assistance, hygiene resources, case management and housing services to individuals and families experiencing poverty, food insecurity and homelessness. The organization has served more than 1.1 million meals over its 40-year history.
New Bethany is encouraging residents to donate or volunteer as demand continues to rise across the region.