Dear John, 

It’s not often that you can pinpoint an exact moment that ignites something within you.   

For Leanne, that moment happened volunteering in a kindergarten classroom where she noticed three students who continually showed up to school tired, unable to stay awake to absorb the lessons.   

Why?  

They are hungry.   

The reality is that children right in your own community don’t have access to consistent, nutritious food.  A need unable to be met.  

In that moment, Leanne saw the need, wondered if there was a solution and decided to do something about it.   

Partnering with the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, Leanne started a BackPack program- East Penn Panther Pack. That was over 10 years ago.   

Today, Leanne’s desire to help meet an unmet need has grown into a School Pantry that serves over 130 families. This pantry provides food as well as basic household necessities like cleaning products, baby food, diapers, and even school supplies.   

“I just want to make sure nobody goes hungry,” Leanne declares.  

And the community rallies behind her. Not only does Panther Pack make a difference in lives of the children and families it serves, but it also brings together the larger community through service: some current and former high school students, teachers and their families, and students in the Special Education program who find dignity and purpose in accomplishments that prepare them for life post-graduation.   

A former neighbor in need and now current Panther Pack volunteer puts it simply, “It’s more than food, it’s community.”  

Join our community. Join the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in fighting hunger, improving lives, and strengthening communities. Your gift can help children and families as well as veterans and seniors throughout your community.   

You can make an immediate impact on neighbors in need throughout 27 counties in central Pennsylvania. Your support means advocates like Leanne can continue to serve hundreds of neighbors and empower change by rallying a community.   

Your support means children can enjoy their summer without worrying about their next meal. Your support means seniors can have fresh produce despite their fixed income and increasing expenses.   

Let this be your moment.   

Now is the time to give! This summer, your gift to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank helps neighbors.  

Every dollar you give helps provide nutritious food to local kids and families.  

Thank you for your ongoing partnership.  Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable summer!  

In gratitude,  

Joe Arthur, CEO