Across Pennsylvania and beyond, food banks are facing a crisis—and it’s impacting tens of thousands of families, children, and seniors who rely on community support to make it through the month.
Locally, Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley—a critical source of food for over 200 nonprofit partners—has seen its shelves nearly emptied due to federal funding cuts and a delayed state budget. Programs like SNAP, TEFAP, and state-funded food purchase efforts are currently stalled (source: https://www.lehighvalleynews.com/elections/with-shelves-nearly-empty-second-harvest-food-bank-finding-its-way-amid-funding-cuts)
We’ve seen the empty shelves at the local food pantries first-hand. We’ve heard from the administrators and staff of our charity partners who have told us of their struggles to maintain adequate inventory to support their clients. This is not just a local issue. These same funding challenges are affecting food banks and community pantries across the country.
At iHave iNeed, we’ve continued working to help those in need within the Lehigh Valley, but we also want to encourage everyone—wherever you are—to support food security efforts in your own communities.
Here’s How You Can Help:
✅ Donate Food or Personal Items
If you’re in or near the Lehigh Valley, we’re actively collecting donations of extra food and personal care items. Items needed most:
- Shelf-stable proteins (canned chicken/tuna, peanut butter, beans), pasta, rice
- Kid-friendly foods like cereal and granola bars
- Personal care products like toothpaste, shampoo, and hygiene supplies
📍 Drop-off or pickup available—contact us at operations@ihave-ineed.org
✅ Give a Monetary Donation
Not nearby? No time to shop? A financial contribution allows us to quickly purchase high-need items, support transportation costs, and expand our reach.
Donate securely here → https://donate.stripe.com/00g7wq26Mg9Ed9u6oo
✅ If you’re outside our area:
Please consider reaching out to your local food bank or pantry. Many are experiencing similar shortfalls and need help restocking basic essentials.
✅ Businesses & Organizations:
Partner with us or your local pantry to:
- Host a collection drive
- Set up donation bins
- Match donations or offer employee giving programs
Reach out to us at info@ihave-ineed.org to schedule a call to discuss further.
✅ Advocate for Support:
Contact your state and federal legislators to urge continued funding for nutrition assistance programs. Your voice makes a difference in shaping food policy and securing relief for struggling families.
No one should have to choose between food and other essentials.
Whether you donate locally or help us here in eastern Pennsylvania, your support has real impact. Let’s come together—community by community—to help restock shelves and restore hope.