EAST STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — It is that time of year when the Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser supports non-profits doing life-changing work in Monroe County.
The event, now in its 22nd year, has raised more than $3 million for our neighbors in need. This year, four organizations were selected to receive funding.
Cynthia Lang is grocery shopping. But she's not at the grocery store, and her bill is free. "It's a lot of help, you get a lot of food here," Lang said.
State-of-the-art facility is being built to fight food insecurity
Cynthia takes care of her husband, who has limited mobility, and money is tight. They rely on the Salvation Army in East Stroudsburg's food pantry to get by every week.
"They give you a lot of choices of produce, vegetables, and all different things you can make meals with," Lang said.
Last fiscal year, the Salvation Army helped nearly 40,000 people in Monroe County through this food pantry and a number of other programs, including an emergency shelter on-site for individuals and families, rent and utility assistance, plus a soup kitchen serving hot meals and hope to anyone in need. The organization is also known for distributing holiday meals, winter coats, and Christmas toys with faith at the forefront.
"The Salvation Army has been in Monroe County for 125 years. At the beginning, back then, it was pretty light and simple. Now we're to the point where about 40% of the population needs some type of assistance," Major John Wheeler from Salvation Army of East Stroudsburg explained.
Back at the pantry, Cythia has a full plate in life, but also on the dinner table, thanks to the Salvation Army, "I know I can come here to get food that lasts, at least for a few days anyway."
With funding from this year's Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser, the Salvation Army will provide clients with fresh food, meal education, and healthy recipe ideas.
28/22 News is a proud sponsor of the 22nd annual Pocono Mountains Community Fundraiser.It will be held on Wednesday, September 17 at Mount Airy Casino Resort. 28/22's Candice Kelly is once again emceeing the big event when we find out just how much each organization receives.
