A Community United to Provide Pantry Staples and Hope This Thanksgiving

In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, a powerful partnership came together to ensure families across our community had not only a holiday meal, but also essential pantry staples to carry them forward. On Friday, November 21, Catholic Charities joined with the Diocese of Allentown, Jaindl Family Turkey Farms—who generously donated the turkeys—and PA Senators Jarrett Coleman and Nick Miller at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena in Allentown. Together, they served hundreds of families in need, distributing 272 turkeys along with bags of groceries provided by Catholic Charities to help stock pantries for the days and weeks ahead.

Well before the 3:30 p.m. start time, families lined the Cathedral parking lot, a visible reminder of the growing need across the region. The Catholic Charities Food Truck parked beside a Jaindl Family Farms truck, creating a seamless assembly line of care. From the Catholic Charities truck came thoughtfully packed bags of pantry staples, personally handed to families by Bishop Alfred Schlert. Nearby, “Phil the Bag,” the Catholic Charities mascot, welcomed guests with smiles and warmth, reinforcing that this was about more than food—it was about dignity and belonging.

The spirit of partnership was evident throughout the afternoon. Senators Coleman and Miller worked alongside volunteers to unload turkeys, passing them down the line—including to Senator Coleman’s children.

For Catholic Charities, providing food is part of a larger promise to walk with families beyond moments of crisis. The groceries distributed that day represent ongoing support—meals made possible because donors believe no family should face hunger alone. This Thanksgiving outreach stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when compassionate partners and generous supporters come together: nourishing bodies, uplifting spirits, and strengthening our community with hope.