The Levittown Salvation Army announced it received $10,000 for COVID-19 relief from the PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group. The purpose of the emergency funding is to assist with the greatest needs of The Salvation Army’s clients in the Levittown area. During this unprecedented time when unemployment is at the highest it has been since The Great Depression, more people and families are in desperate need of food and money to pay bills, particularly their mortgage or lease.
“We are seeing regular clients in need of assistance, as well as new clients who need help. There are plenty of people who have lost their jobs or had their hours slashed and they are the sole breadwinners for their households,” said Capt. David Kelly, Corps commanding officer. “We are so grateful for PNC’s relationship over the years. We will use this funding to make sure people have food and can stay in their homes for at least another month. Both are basic necessities that we all need to survive and thrive.”
Capt. Kelly and his team have been on the frontlines since the pandemic began, handing out school breakfasts and lunches to children on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Levittown Salvation Army location at 215 Appletree Drive. They also distribute frozen dinners to individuals and families on Tuesdays and Fridays while wearing gloves and face masks, and practicing social distancing.
PNC’s grant is part of a total of $30 million in philanthropic contributions The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. committed to provide in markets across the country by the end of 2020 to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We recognize our role as a bank in serving as a pillar of the community, and the incredible need to come together and support one another,” said Joe Meterchick, PNC regional president for Philadelphia, Delaware and Southern New Jersey. “The impact of COVID-19 has further heightened the issue of food insecurity. Supporting the critical work of organizations making a difference, like The Salvation Army, is the perfect way to help address the local hardship brought about by the pandemic.”
Capt. Kelly and the workers have watched the food and rental assistance needs increase over the last several weeks. He is actively seeking partnerships with corporations, foundations and community partners to help meet the growing needs.
To donate from a distance, go to The Salvation Army’s Virtual Food Pantry at salvationarmypa.org. All donations are directed to the ZIP code in which the donation originates.
All corporate gift offers should be submitted to Stephen Brown, corporate giving manager, at stephen.brown@use.salvationarmy.org.
For more information about the Levittown Salvation Army, call 215-945-0717 or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/SalvationArmyBucksCounty/
