Giving is an opportunity to be part of making a difference in the West Chester community, especially during November's season of "Thanks." Americans generally believe Thanksgiving is modeled on a 1621 harvest feast shared by English colonists (Pilgrims) of Plymouth and the Wampanoag people. Many still celebrate November as the time for counting blessings of the past year.
Following are some locations that accept food donations, monetary funding and volunteers to assist others in need. Group- or neighborhood-led food drives are great ways to quickly contribute. Some now even conduct virtual food drives.
Chester County Food Bank
650 Pennsylvania Drive
Exton, PA 19341
Karen Mudgett, Volunteer Manager
610.873.6000, extension 122
kmudgett@chestercountyfoodbank.org
ChesterCountyFoodBank.org
This team operates as a central location for local agencies/food cupboards that serve the hungry and food insecure of Chester County. Through their "COLOR SOME KINDNESS" initiative, they offer opportunities for people to decorate cardboard boxes used for Senior Food Boxes to help brighten recipients' days when they receive them. All ages are welcome to participate, but this is a great service opportunity for children who aren't old enough for their other volunteer opportunities. They also need volunteer ambassadors, speakers and Meals On Wheels drivers.
West Chester Food Cupboard
431 S. Bolmar St.
610.344.3175
WestChesterFoodCupboard.org
The Cupboard's team commits to providing a variety of fresh and nonperishable healthy food to those in need. Until the end of December 2022, their organizers state they are open to distribute food to any Pennsylvania resident in need, while continuing to serve people living in the West Chester Area School District.
ACT In Faith of Greater West Chester Community Cupboard/Food Pantry and Parish Hall Kitchen/Soup Kitchen
10 W. Barnard St.
484.324.8492
ActInFaithGWC.org
ACT in Faith was created in 2010 by members of the Religious Council of Greater West Chester in response to the growing needs of the community, especially those experiencing temporary setbacks in life. They conduct a Neighbors Feeding Neighbors program.
Cornerstone Christian Fellowship's Food Distribution Center
426 W. Gay St.
610.430.3508
CornerstoneChurch.ca/FoodPantry
They collect nonperishable food items and monetary donations for families in need.
St. Agnes Day Room Food Bank
233 W. Gay St.
610.429.0697
The Day Room provides hospitality to those in need within a caring, welcoming environment.
