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Allentown food bank aims to deliver food to seniors in need, in new program

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, August 29th 2025 at 22:25 GMT by WFMZ-TV
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Allentown Food Bank Launches New Delivery Initiative to Reach Seniors in Need

Allentown, Pa. – In a bold move to address the rising food insecurity among seniors in the Lehigh Valley, the Allentown Food Bank announced a new delivery program this week designed to bring nutritious meals directly to the doorsteps of older adults who struggle to shop or travel to grocery stores. The initiative, unveiled during a press conference on Wednesday, will see the Food Bank partnering with local grocery retailers, volunteer drivers, and the Lehigh County Department of Social Services to serve more than 3,000 seniors across the county over the next year.

A Targeted Response to an Urgent Need

The Food Bank’s director, Sarah Thompson, said the program is “a direct response to the voices of the seniors we’ve been hearing on the phone.” According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Availability and Health Index, 12% of adults over 65 in Lehigh County reported difficulty accessing food during the pandemic—an issue that has only worsened as many older adults face mobility challenges and health risks that make in‑person shopping hazardous.

“The pandemic has amplified the difficulties that many of our senior clients face,” Thompson noted. “We want to meet them where they are, safely and with dignity.” She added that the new program is part of a broader effort by the Food Bank to expand its “Senior Service Line,” which already includes nutrition counseling and a monthly “Seniors’ Basket” of staples delivered by partner grocery stores.

How the Delivery Program Works

Under the new model, the Food Bank will deploy a fleet of volunteer‑led delivery vehicles, each equipped with temperature‑controlled compartments to keep perishable items fresh. Drivers will operate in a “hub‑and‑spoke” system: a central distribution point in Allentown will receive pre‑packaged grocery items from local donors and suppliers such as Wegmans and Aldi, after which volunteer drivers will escort the loads to seniors’ homes.

In addition to standard grocery items—canned beans, whole‑grain bread, fresh produce, and protein sources—the program will offer “Meal Kits” that include pre‑measured ingredients and simple instructions for preparing quick, balanced meals. The kits are designed in consultation with the Food Bank’s nutritionist, Dr. Maya Patel, who stresses the importance of including adequate calcium, vitamin D, and omega‑3 fatty acids for seniors.

“We’re not just shipping food; we’re shipping health,” Dr. Patel said. “These kits will help seniors maintain their independence and nutrition without the need to leave their homes.”

Partnerships that Make It Possible

The initiative is made possible through a combination of community partnerships and funding. The Food Bank has secured a $75,000 grant from the Lehigh County Department of Social Services, earmarked for purchasing delivery vehicles and fuel. In addition, local businesses are stepping up: Wegmans has committed to providing a monthly supply of fresh produce at a discounted rate, while a group of senior advocacy organizations, including the Allentown Senior Citizens Association, has pledged to help identify eligible recipients and promote the program through their networks.

Volunteer recruitment is also a key component. The Food Bank’s website, which the article linked to for more information, highlights a volunteer sign‑up page that lists roles such as “Delivery Driver,” “Item Sorting Volunteer,” and “Nutrition Educator.” The volunteer program offers training on safe food handling and senior communication skills, ensuring drivers are equipped to provide a respectful and comfortable experience.

Looking Ahead: Impact and Expansion

Thompson projected that the program could reduce food insecurity rates among seniors by 20% within the first year. The Food Bank will track metrics such as the number of seniors served, frequency of deliveries, and client satisfaction scores. The initiative also ties into the Food Bank’s broader goal of creating a “food‑access ecosystem” in the Lehigh Valley that combines distribution, education, and advocacy.

“We’re testing a model that could be replicated in other counties across Pennsylvania,” Thompson said. “If it works here, we’ll look to scale it up to serve seniors in Bethlehem, Easton, and beyond.”

The Food Bank’s website, which the article linked to for more information, offers a downloadable “Senior Delivery Plan” that outlines eligibility criteria, application procedures, and a FAQ section. Interested seniors or caregivers can apply online or call the Food Bank’s toll‑free hotline for assistance.

Community Response

Local senior groups have responded enthusiastically. Mary Jenkins, chair of the Allentown Senior Citizens Association, told reporters that the program “fills a critical gap for many of our members who are retired, on fixed incomes, and prefer to stay home.” She also noted that the delivery program would relieve the logistical burden on families who often juggle caring for elderly relatives while managing their own work responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the Food Bank’s volunteer network has already mobilized. “We’re excited to see our community come together,” said volunteer coordinator, Luis Ramirez. “The delivery program is a tangible way for people to give back and make a real difference.”

Final Thoughts

The Allentown Food Bank’s new delivery initiative represents a targeted, compassionate response to the unique challenges that seniors face in accessing food. By combining local partnerships, volunteer energy, and a focus on nutritional quality, the program aims to empower older adults to maintain their health and independence. As the Food Bank tracks its impact and looks toward future expansion, the community’s support will be essential to its success. For those in need or wishing to contribute, the Food Bank’s website provides both resources and a straightforward avenue to get involved.