Published November 05. 2024 03:08PM
New Bethany celebrated and dedicated its remodeled and expanded Choice Food Pantry Oct. 14 with New Bethany employees and volunteers, public officials, and supporters recognizing the agency for its contributions to the community.
“This has been 10 years in the making,” said Marc Rittle, executive director of New Bethany.
Renovations include second floor structural improvements, installation of a cargo elevator, improving guest flow and conversion to a more grocery store feel. A visitor survey conducted in 2023 provided the impetus for creating a more natural market-like experience. “Growing the usable space helps to store food and save food,” said Rittle.
The project cost $135,000 according to Rittle. Community support from federal, state, county, city and nonprofit foundations funded the project. They included the PA Department of Environmental Protection, United States Department of Agriculture, City of Bethlehem, County of Northampton Department of Community and Economic development, Helen and R.K Laros Foundation, Provident Bank Foundation, and Sylvia Perkin Perpetual Charitable Trust.
New Bethany planning director Chris Cassidy said the pantry “served 1,542 households made up of 3,070 people in 2023.” She said that is a 90 percent increase over 2022 and added that 2024 numbers are trending toward the 2023 totals.
Facility director Bill Lohr says the improvements “will allow people to move more freely throughout the pantry.”
Contact Construction performed the work, which took over a year to complete.
Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure presents a congratulatory proclamation to New Bethany Executive Director Marc Rittle.
“New Bethany is a center for hope and opportunity,” says Rep. Steve Samuelson.
“Today is about helping people,” says Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds.
R.K. Laros Foundation trustee Laura Shelton says, “New Bethany’s strength is to pivot and take action, such as updating this food pantry.”
New Bethany food access director Brandy Garofalo says, “I now declare the food choice facility open.”
PRESS PHOTOS BY DANA GRUBBInside the facility, shelves are stocked to feed the community. More photos on page A8.
New Bethany board member Marcie Lightwood admires the improved refrigeration section.
New Bethany executive director Marc Rittle gives a tour of the structurally improved second floor storage and meeting area.
Volunteer Cozy Wilkins demonstrates the new cargo elevator that moves stock between the first and second floors.
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