SCRANTON — Cyclists collected food donations Saturday in an event that has become a tradition for many.
About 25 participants in the Anthracite Bicycle Coalition’s Cranksgiving rode to six grocery stores and filled backpacks with nonperishable food to be donated to NEPA Youth Shelter.
Chairman Gene McDonough said the organization has sponsored the ride since 2017 and originally donated the food to several nonprofits. The NEPA Youth Shelter became the sole recipient a few years ago, McDonough said.
Bicyclists prepare for a Cranksgiving ride during which they will collect food items for a charitable organization Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (GERI GIBBONS/STAFF PHOTO)
Left to right, John Rosengrant, executive director of the NEPA Youth Shelter and Gene McDonough, Chairman of the Anthracite Bike Coalition, await the return of cyclists to Groove Brewing Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. The event entitled “Cranksgiving” collects food donations for the shelter, as well as fun and a sense of community for riders. (GERI GIBBONS/STAFF PHOTO)
Bicyclists prepare for a Cranksgiving ride during which they will collect food items for a charitable organization Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (GERI GIBBONS/STAFF PHOTO)
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Bicyclists prepare for a Cranksgiving ride during which they will collect food items for a charitable organization Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (GERI GIBBONS/STAFF PHOTO)
News of the ride was a welcome surprise to John Rosengrant, named executive director of the youth shelter earlier this year. As he and McDonough sat at Groove Brewing on Sanderson Avenue waiting for the riders to return, both reflected on the needs of the community and its young people.
Rosengrant said cold-weather clothing such as hats and mittens are welcome donations, in addition to canned and nonperishable food.
Cyclists spent the day outdoors and made friends, all while knowing they were helping the community.
McDonough didn’t ride this year because of an injury. He usually dresses up like a turkey. Other riders wear Thanksgiving-themed outfits.
The coalition also sponsors a cooperative Cycle Kitchen, which matches used bikes to young owners and provides space, tools and guidance for recipients to learn how to fix and maintain their bikes.