The Allentown School District Foundation has partnered with the school district to launch an emergency food drive addressing food insecurity among students and families affected by the federal government shutdown and SNAP benefit disruptions.

The foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) organization, will accept monetary donations until Friday, Nov. 14 to support more than 16,300 students and families served by the district.

“These are our families, our neighbors, our students — and they deserve to know their community is here to support them,” said Patti Bruno, executive director of the Allentown School District Foundation.

The initiative responds to an urgent need in a district where more than 91% of students are economically disadvantaged and nearly 98% qualify for free or reduced-price meals. For many children, school meals represent their most reliable source of nutrition.

Monetary contributions will fund purchases of items difficult to collect through traditional food drives, including baby formula, diapers, hygiene products, and specialized dietary items.

Superintendent Carol D. Birks is coordinating the effort through school social workers and community partners to ensure donations reach families quickly and confidentially.

“In our district, compassion leads our actions, and no child or family will face hunger alone,” the district administration said.

The campaign involves three partner organizations: Second Harvest Food Bank provides logistics and storage, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley handles community outreach, and the Allentown School District Foundation serves as the financial host. The foundation charges no fees, ensuring all donations directly benefit families.

Community members, businesses, and organizations can contribute through the foundation’s secure Zeffy donation page.

Generative AI was used to draft this story based on information provided by the Allentown School District Foundation. It was reviewed and edited by Advance Local.

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