Host for a Day

Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen has launched its 2023 Host‑for‑a‑Day campaign, which is the primary means of financial support for the Kitchen’s mission to provide a free daily meal and other services to area needy. Pictured are Kitchen Executive Director Rob Williams and Kitchen Advisory Board member Dr. Tania Stoker, campaign chair.

Host‑for‑a‑Day Campaign Supports Mission to Feed Needy

Campaign Celebration Event is May 3; RSVPs Required by April 3

Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen in Scranton has begun the 45^th annual Host‑for‑a‑Day campaign to support its mission of providing a free daily meal and other services to needy men, women and children in the area.

For a donation of $100 or more, an individual, family, business, community organization or faith-based group can help to sponsor the day’s meal. Recognized sponsorships begin at the $500 contribution level.

In effect, each contributor becomes a “host” for a day. Contributors may then select a date on which they, or someone they designate or memorialize, will be recognized as the provider for that meal.

Financial contributions to the Kitchen also help to fund other programs such as a Client-Choice Food Pantry and Free Clothing Store, and weekly meals at parish locations and high-rise housing buildings in Carbondale and Olyphant.

“These services benefit people of all ages, and the need is greater than ever,” said Rob Williams, Kitchen executive director. He noted that in 2022 the Kitchen provided 75,000 nutritious meals. In addition, the number of family servings in the Food Pantry grew from 300 to nearly 800 per month and there were more than 400 individual visits per month at the Free Clothing Store.

Mr. Williams announced that this year the Kitchen will launch a free mobile clothing trailer to bring clothing items to those in need in surrounding communities. Also, the weekly meal service currently provided in Olyphant and Carbondale will expand to Elmhurst.

Dr. Tania Stoker, a member of the Kitchen’s Advisory Board, is chairing the 2023 Host-for-a-Day campaign and leading the effort with her fellow board members.

“Throughout the history of the Kitchen, we have received such generous support from the community, and we are thankful that so many people recognize the need to help others, and we are hopeful they will continue to participate in this campaign,” she said.

Past contributors to the campaign are receiving an appeal directly from the Kitchen through the mail or will be contacted by members of the Kitchen’s Advisory Board.

Anyone who does not receive an appeal through the mail can make a Host‑for‑a‑Day gift by calling the Kitchen at 570-342‑5556, or sending a check to Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen, 500 Penn Avenue, Scranton PA 18509. Donations can also be made online by clicking the Host For The Day button below.

Thank you for your support!