Hundreds of meals were handed out in Scranton on Thursday to help keep families fed throughout the holiday.
SCRANTON, Pa. — As boxes are passed from table to trunk, it holds more than just food, a relief for families this Christmas.
This giveaway at the Salvation Army in Scranton is serving about 225 families, providing everything from pantry staples to holiday essentials like a turkey.
Organizers say the need continues to grow, especially among seniors.
“The biggest thing we’ve seen this year is the number of elderly that have reached out looking for food boxes, which is unusual. Normally, they’re pretty much all set with their Social Security, etc., however, this year, we’ve seen that, especially with utility assistance and stuff like that, we’ve had a lot more people coming in looking for assistance,” said Capt. Neil Childs, Co-Commanding Officer, Salvation Army, Scranton.
Volunteers are the backbone of this effort that’s been going on for more than 50 years.
Lakeland High School helps out with this food giveaway every month.
“I love giving back to the community, especially for my hometown. It’s really great to know that we have these resources for the people around us,” said Eliana Rogari, a Lakeland Student.
While other volunteers have been helping for years, including one man who says giving back now means everything.
“It feels wonderful to give back. I’ve been out here for like 10 years. This town is really awesome. I was in this position, getting food from other people, and I was homeless for like nine months, so it just feels good to give back,” said Fuquan Henderson, Scranton.
Henderson says getting into the holiday spirit is part of his own recovery, and his spirit of giving is being passed on. “It makes me feel blessed, real blessed. I’m with god now, so this makes me feel real warm and open to doing things for other people.”
As trunks are slammed shut with everything needed to dress the table this holiday, it’s a reminder that no one is facing this season alone.
Dining and Cooking