ALLENTOWN, Pa. – With Christmas just days away, the Allentown Rescue Mission is in the home stretch of its holiday meal drive, and every donation counts.

69 News Reporter Sydney Kay has the story in Allentown, with how you can help support its mission this holiday, and beyond.

Donna Schudel, the mission’s Development Manager, said it costs about $2.95 to serve a meal. People are served meals 365 days a year.

The mission serves a special holiday meal each year.

People can donate to the Allentown Rescue Mission by going to its website or come in the door at 355 Hamilton Street.

Schudel said people come to the mission to donate food, supplies, and grocery store gift cards. She said people at the mission need food, coats, hats, and boots. 

The mission is looking for fresh and frozen foods with protein, such as chicken and fish, she said. The mission collects canned and boxed food.

The mission offers other services, in addition to meals and shelter. Schudel said people can go through an eight-week transformation program, which is 120 hours of learning that includes life skills, workforce development, and learning about anger management.

People can learn about the gospel message, which is offered to people at the mission.

Schudel said the group’s mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and restore.

The mission, which recently celebrated its 125th anniversary, is 100% community supported, and does not receive government funds, she said.

“The community keeps our lights on,” she said.