Summer Food Drive Kicks Off

Summer is typically a time of abundance, but it can also be a challenging time for families with children who depend on free or reduced school breakfasts and lunches much of the year. The organizers of a summer food drive are hoping to change that.

The Summer Harvest Food Drive for Lehigh, Northampton and Monroe counties (PA) and Warren County (NJ) is being held throughout July, which is also a time when food pantries often run low on inventory.

According to a news release, last year’s inaugural food drive collected over 3,000 items that were donated to 11 local pantries.

There are a number of ways for individuals and local organizations, including food pantries, to participate. Registration for all opportunities is available at Summerharvestfooddrive.com, where local organizations and businesses that are interested in serving as drop-off locations for food donations can sign up. According to the news release, organizers will provide collection containers and flyers, and monitor/collect donations throughout the drive. Individuals can also register online to help pick up, sort and distribute donations through early August.

There are currently 25 drop-off locations listed on the website, including a number of locations in the Bethlehem area, where donations will be collected during Blast Furnace Blues Fest at Bethlehem’s Levitt Pavillon the weekend of July 19-21 and at Northampton Community College’s Summer Theatre programs throughout the month.

Supporting food drive partners include Minsi Trails Council – Scouting America, The Freezer Ministry and Garden Gatherers.