CALV_AR25_1117 (1) by communityactionlv

2024 | 2025 comm unity Action ANNUAL report

ABOUT Community Action Lehigh Valley is an anti-poverty nonprofit serving the greater Lehigh Valley through programs focusing on Advocacy, Business Start-Up and Development, Food Access and Nutrition, Housing, Neighborhood Revitalization, and Youth.

MISSION The mission of Community Action Lehigh Valley is to improve the quality of life in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas by building communities in which all people have access to economic opportunity, the ability to pursue that opportunity, and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

HISTORY Community Action Agencies are private nonprofit or public organizations whose development was encouraged by the federal government in 1964 to combat poverty in their local communities. CALV is part of the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania network

OUR PROGRAMS & SUBSIDIARIES

LETTER FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Transformation: Leading Change at Community Action Lehigh Valley

Reflecting on Growth, Resilience, and the Road Ahead

Over the past four years, Community Action Lehigh Valley has faced remarkable growth and a significant transformation. The pandemic forced us to rethink how we deliver essential services, expand our programs, and invest in new talent and technology.

As the immediate crisis of the pandemic eased, the needs in our region have increased, with families still struggling with food insecurity and housing instability. While donations surged during the pandemic, they have since returned to prepandemic levels, even as the demand remains high. At the same time, government funding has also declined, putting added pressure on our agency to do more with less, making donor support more vital than ever.

Pre-pandemic, Second Harvest Food Bank was feeding about 65,000 people a month across the six counties we serve. Last fiscal year, Second Harvest provided vital support to an average of 124,000 people each month—well above the levels seen in 2020. While we expanded our staff during COVID to address unprecedented demand, sustaining that level of staffing became increasingly challenging as resources normalized.

A recent State budget impasse and a federal shutdown have forced us to transform and to rethink ways to provide adequate services to our neighbors in need. In recent months, government funding for nonprofits—including Community Action Lehigh Valley—has been significantly reduced. These decisions, made far from the communities we serve, often fail to account for the very real people whose lives depend on these vital programs. Every cut has a ripple effect on staff who do the work. Families, seniors, and children in our region now face greater uncertainty, and the gap between need and available resources continues to widen.

Second Harvest Food Bank is only one of our 11 programs severely affected by a loss in funding that you will read about in the pages of this Annual Report. Consequently, making the difficult decision to reduce staff in order to align with our budget has been one of the most challenging and heart-wrenching aspects of this year.

Over the past few years, our audit schedule faced unexpected delays. The extended illness of our CFO, followed by the adjustment periods required for interim leaders, made it difficult to maintain our typical audit timelines. We have since implemented

measures to reinforce financial oversight and ensure greater continuity going forward.

Yet, in the face of these challenges, our agency is not standing still. We are transforming—adapting our operations, innovating our programs, and strengthening partnerships to ensure that we can continue to meet urgent needs. Our team has responded with resilience and creativity, finding new ways to deliver services, leverage community support, and advocate for those whose voices are too often overlooked.

While the funding landscape has changed, our commitment to the Lehigh Valley remains resolute. We are calling on our neighbors, partners, and leaders to stand with us—because together, we can turn this moment of hardship into a rallying point for lasting change.

Community Call to Action: Our journey of transformation has shown us that real change is only possible when our community stands together. The challenges we face: rising needs, shrinking resources, and ongoing uncertainty—cannot be overcome by our agency alone. For more than 60 years, families, seniors, and children in the Lehigh Valley have relied on the programs and support we provide. But to continue meeting these urgent needs, we need your partnership more than ever.

We invite you to deepen your involvement. Whether you volunteer, donate, advocate, or simply share our story, you help us sustain programs that make a real difference. The gap between what our neighbors need and what we can provide is widening, but your generosity ensures that every child, family, and individual in our region has the chance to thrive. Together, we can turn this moment of hardship into a rallying point for lasting change. Thank you for standing with us on this journey.

With Deep Appreciation,

Dawn Godshall CEO, Community Action Lehigh Valley

Board of Directors

Hilda Cruz

President

Jon Schwartz

Vice President

Anna Barbosa

Secretary

Bethany DiMatteo

Treasurer

Winston Alozie

Wayne Barz

Karen Beck-Pooley

Louis Cinquino

Linda Faust

Lidia Gonzalez

Tomika Gould

Justin Grimshaw

John "Jack" Gross

Mark Hartney

Michael Perry

Nicole Pietrzak

Shalanda Riddick

Crystal Rose

Joseph Roy

Stephanie Steele

Robert Vidoni

Betty Wagner

2024 – 2025 Financial statement

(dollar amount and percent)

FOOD CONTRIBUTIONS: $19,553,217.29

(dollar amount and percent) expenses

DISTRIBUTED FOOD: $19,358,628.62 TOTAL ASSETS $21,131,155.42 CURRENT LIABILITIES $7,938,096.25 NET ASSETS $13,193,059.17

* In comparison to the previous fiscal year, our figures have declined due to higher revenues in previous years, a substantial increase in food costs, the expiration of COVID relief funds, and several additional factors. We are currently utilizing the surplus funds from earlier periods, as new revenue continues to come in.

These unaudited figures include revenues from Community Action’s subsidiary nonprofit community development corporations as well as the value of food we distribute through Second Harvest Food Bank. Our audit was conducted by Clifton Larson Allen. Our audited financial statements can be obtained at communityactionlv.org A copy of the official registration and financial information for Community Action may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement. Layout & Design: Working Dog Press | Photography: Marco Calderon Photography, Morning Call

NEIGHBORHOOD revitalization R

Slate Belt Rising (SBR) is a neighborhood revitalization initiative designed to integrate and capitalize on the substantial assets of the individual Slate Belt communities. By leveraging the unique history, architecture, and culture of each municipality into a regional approach, SBR will use a Neighborhood Partnership Program to foster comprehensive community and economic development. While SBR specifically targets the boroughs of Bangor, Wind Gap, Pen Argyl, and Portland, some initiatives promote development and the coordination of services for the entire region.

SLATE BELT RISING

Provided Financial Assistance to Local Businesses:

Supported 3 businesses through our Commercial Lease Subsidy Program, helping them establish a lasting presence in the community.

Conducted the 2025 Slate Belt Annual Cleanup:

Organized 7 teams of volunteers across seven municipalities to collect 1.78 tons of litter with over 100 volunteers participating in the event.

Awarded Scholarships:

Granted 6 scholarships to high school students in the Bangor and Pen Argyl School Districts, supporting the next generation of leaders in our community.

THE VAULT HAIR SALON

Hannah wasn’t serious about starting her own salon business. In fact, she wasn’t planning on it at all.

But a kismet meeting of the property owner and a spontaneous walkthrough of the building one evening with her husband, brother, and dad solidified her future: Hannah was opening her own salon.

The Vault Hair Salon is housed in the historic First National Bank building in downtown Bangor at the cross section of South Main Street and Route 512. As a lover of vintage and history, Hannah incorporated as much of the original building as she could, including the bank’s vault. The salon offers

many services, including hair styling and coloring to waxing, manicures, pedicures, scalp massages, facials, and many other spa services, with each service having its own treatment room.

Before the lease was signed and construction began, Hannah connected with Slate Belt Rising and had a meeting with Brian Fenstermaker, Director of Slate Belt Rising, to learn all the ways the program could help her achieve her vision. In the end, Hannah received a little over $6,600 to help with the first few months of rent through the Lease Subsidy Program.

Hannah says the assistance came in handy as plans evolved, and costs

climbed as she brought the historic building back to life.

“That was a huge, huge help,” she says. “Having that extra help with the rent each month has been huge. I’m very grateful to have help from my local community.”

Now open, The Vault is thriving; Hannah is grateful the community has grown to love the salon as much as she does. The salon was named the top salon award through The Slate Belt Best in 2025, after four months of business. Hannah is grateful for the support of the community as she continues to thrive in downtown Bangor.

@cadc_bethlehem

Since 1998, Community Action Development Bethlehem has advanced a neighborhood-based vision of community and economic development that builds on the strengths and assets of our diverse community.

CADB’s signature program, Southside Tomorrow, focuses on promoting Housing Affordability and Quality, improving Communication and Connectivity, and supporting Public and Green Spaces in south Bethlehem. CADB is also a partner in the Pembroke Choice Neighborhoods planning process, the Alley House Project in west Bethlehem, and the Northside Alive neighborhood initiative.

• Connected over 458 residents to community resources

• Launched a tenant advocacy and landlord-tenant mediation program

• Trained over 100 community members in landlord-tenant rights and responsibilities through a partnership with North Penn Legal Services

• Successfully mediated 18 landlord-tenant conflicts

• Prevented the eviction of over 70% of participants in the tenant advocacy program who were facing eviction proceedings

• Engaged 112 south Bethlehem residents in neighborhood meetings

• Completed 2 residential façade improvements

• Supported the launch of the Alley House pilot program

• Provided leadership training for the Pembroke Choice Neighborhood community ambassadors

Our successes and achievements from the last year include:

• Supported the growth of 3 community gardens in south Bethlehem

• Supported the ongoing work of the Southside Ambassadors in the Four Blocks International area

• Held 9 neighborhood cleanups that engaged 58 residents and business owners

• Engaged over 1,000 residents at eight community building events

• Engaged 270 youth through summer programming at the Lynfield Community Center, Shooting Stars Basketball, Yosko Pool swim lessons, YWCA Bethlehem’s youth leadership programming, and Push Ahead Lehigh Valley

• Launched the Western Gateway Revitalization Project, a collaborative partnership with Community Action Lehigh Valley, Cathedral Church of the Nativity, and New Bethany that will create up to 6 new units of affordable housing in south Bethlehem.

GISSELA’S STORY

When Gissela and her family moved to Bethlehem from Peru, they found affordable housing on the Southside like generations of immigrants before them. Her three children enrolled at Donegan Elementary and Liberty High schools, and Gissela and her husband began to build a new life for themselves in this community.

After their first year in Bethlehem, Gissela’s landlord—a college student housing provider—informed her that her family would need to move out at the conclusion of their lease. With only 30 days’ notice, Gissela and her family were concerned about finding another affordable home and saving up enough money to cover the security deposit. They reached out to CADB’s tenant advocate Duvan Cano for support.

Duvan met with Gissela and provided her with information on her rights as a

tenant and different courses of action. To avoid a potential eviction filing which could impact her future ability to obtain housing, Gissela and her family decided to leave their current home and stay with a friend until they could find a new place. Duvan worked tirelessly to find an affordable home for Gissela and her family, visiting units after work and on weekends.

After a few weeks, Duvan found a place that met Gissela’s needs and negotiated a lease with the new landlord that would work for everyone. When Gissela mentioned that they were a few hundred dollars short of the security deposit, CADB staff assisted in securing contributions from private donors and New Bethany so that Gissela and her family could sign the lease right away.

Now that Gissela and her family are settled in their new home, CADB staff

have stayed in contact to ensure that they are able to remain stably housed. When Gissela lost her job, she knew to reach out to CADB staff immediately for support to find a new job to ensure that the family can continue to pay rent. Thanks to the support of CADB’s tenant advocacy program, Gissela’s children have been able to remain in their schools and find stability longterm in the City of Bethlehem.

CADB’s tenant advocacy program supports individuals like Gissela to remain stably housed through one-onone support, direct referrals to rental and legal assistance, and landlordtenant mediation.

During the first year of operations, 98 households in the city of Bethlehem received support from the program, which is a core component of the City of Bethlehem’s affordable housing strategy.

The mission of Community Action Development Allentown is to elevate and empower residents by actively promoting neighborhood revitalization, which strengthens the neighborhood economy, improves the quality of life and is inclusive of all residents.

• Completed the fifth year of the Allentown’s CORE Neighborhood Partnership Program in collaboration with multiple “youth serving” community partners.

• Delivered After Zone (after-school and on-site) programming throughout the Allentown School District including Brigadier Anna Mae Hays Elementary School (15 students), Central Elementary School (30 students), Trexler Middle School (25 students), Bridgeview Academy High School (10 students) and William Allen High School (26 students). In addition, CADA participated in the Allentown School District’s 21st Century initiative to provide after-school programming at Trexler and William Allen.

• Selected 2 new community partners, Generational Guidance and Valley Wealth Partners, to deliver multiweek programming for students in the areas of workforce development and financial literacy, as part of the Coalition of Difference Makers’ effort.

• Continued capacity building support for 3 current community partners and growing nonprofits who provide Allentown School District programming: Cohesion Network, Allentown Public Theatre, and the Fine Feather Foundation, by sponsoring Certified Public Accountant prepared compilation reports which attest to their fiscal management competence and provides an additional asset toward their grant application efforts.

• Collaborated with the Freedom School Partnership to continue the James Lawson Freedom School which served 67 youth and mitigates the “summer slide” by utilizing a researched, multicultural, activity-based curriculum. Pre- and post-assessment tests confirm the positive results. College interns deliver program content.

• Maintained engagement in the innovative anti-violence solutions work led by Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley. Their intensive training and development offerings provide continued development of the critical skills for their Outreach Team and Violence Interrupters. PNLV staff responded to over 45 acts of violence with follow-up services and referrals to victims and their families.

• Partnered with the City of Allentown’s law enforcement staff to implement the 11th year of collaboration on its signature Youth Academy effort focused on engaging middle school students from the Allentown School district to examine careers in law enforcement. 62 students participated over a five-week period and received formal recognition for their work at the end with a camp graduation ceremony held at the Allentown Police Academy attended by friends, families, and local elected officials.

• Conducted an eight-week “Positive Pathways” skills building program at William Allen High School focusing on sophomores who identified as potential “first generation” college students and recruited them to participate in CALV’s Generation Next Program.

• Provided William Allen High School’s Generation Next students with several career path enhancement trips to Lehigh Carbon Community College, Lehigh Valley International Airport and TV Station PBS39.

• Conducted college tours for 23 potential first-generation college students which visited Lincoln University (PA), University of Pennsylvania, and Delaware State University. Conducted smaller college tours for 10 students to Columbia University, New York University, City College of New York, and Laboratory Institute of Merchandising College —a fashion design and lifestyle business school.

• Sponsored multiple “college readiness” offerings for high school students including a six-session virtual SAT Prep Workshop focusing on Math, Reading and Writing; 4 virtual sessions on College Application and Essay Bootcamp; College Career “Explosion” Workshop at Muhlenberg College and a Historically Black College and University College Fair at Bucks County Community College.

• Partnered with the Fine Feather Foundation and Boys & Girls Club of Allentown to conduct an eight-week summer camp at two sites for 65 youth which featured arts, dance, field trips, podcasting, music and video production and several days of activities at Camp Fowler. The students showcased their activities and talents at a post-summer camp recital.

• Developed a multi-session “peer-to-peer” youth entrepreneurship workshop led by four youth entrepreneurs working with 19 enrolled youth participants focusing on creating business plans designed to generate revenue.

• Hosted 2 Youth Entrepreneurship Streetwear Fashion Expos intended to generate revenue for the participating youth entrepreneurs, which also featured performers and podcast interviews. Youth entrepreneurs participated in several “pop-up” shops.

• Collaborated with multiple community partners to provide community events and youth activities reaching over 4,000 residents. Events included: High School Basketball Tournaments; Fun Fest Community Fair; Innastar Trailblazer Awards; Cultural Fair Celebrations and the Annual “High Notes Gala” at Americus Hotel, featuring musical performances by Allentown School District students.

• Worked with Stick Figure Fundraising, LLC to complete capital campaign fundraising study to support the Youth Center project.

• Received unanimous vote approval from Allentown City Council to demolish Cleveland School building which is in the Old Allentown Preservation Association historic district.

• Continued development of Cleveland School site with focus on identifying additional funding for building demolition and site clearance;

• Completed Phase 2 environmental study at Cleveland School site and engaged PPL Electric Utilities to establish plan to disconnect electric power to site and maintain service to surrounding residents.

HOUSING

COMMUNITY ACTION HOMES

Served 85 individuals at 33 different properties Sold 2 homes in Slatington to qualifying families who gained permanent housing

Completed construction on a property in Fountain Hill and sale is forthcoming

33 properties were rehabbed through the Whole Home Repair Program, Lead Abatement, and PHARE Healthy Homes programs

Lehigh Valley Community Land Trust is in the process of reverting land back to the homeowners

SLATINGTON

BETHLEHEM

Diane and Paul are very thankful for being approved for the Whole Home Repairs Program.

Before the repairs, the wood surrounding their windows was rotting; water leaked in from the French patio door, and they couldn’t open a crank-style window in years.

“You could see the home wasn’t energy efficient,” Diane said.

Community Action Homes replaced those five windows and the French patio door. The team also installed a new heat pump and three mini-split units that will provide additional cooling and heating. They also lined the chimney, extended the radon fan pipe, and patched some siding on the outside of the home.

“I don’t think the heat pump would have survived this winter,” she said. “I’m very thankful for the help. It came at a great time.”

AFTER AFTER

CA HOME sTORIES

Corrine guessed that her 1900s farmhouse had at least some lead-based paint. She didn’t realize her whole home was covered in it.

Mobility issues from a car accident had limited her ability to fix the problem herself, but she knew she needed to deal with the issue for her five-year-old son. In the end, her mom encouraged her to apply to the Lead Abatement Program through Community Action Homes.

“I’m typically not a person to ask for help,” she said. However, she applied for the program and was accepted. “I was very blessed that someone reached out.”

Community Action Homes replaced the exterior rotting wood siding, and abated the lead-based paint on the foundation of the home and its porch. Throughout the home, painting was done on many of the windowsills and frames, as well as doorways and trims. Two windows in the

basement were also replaced, and the attic ceiling was also painted.

The experience of working with Community Action Homes was pleasant, Corrine says. Our employees were with her every step of the way through the project. The work being completed brings Corrine peace of mind that her son will be safe while growing up.

“It was 100 percent worth the wait,” she said.

WEATHERIZATION

The Weatherization Program ensures those we serve can live in their homes comfortably during the coldest and warmest months of the year. This team of seven includes two BPI-certified Energy Auditors and BPI Quality Control Inspectors. Additionally, there are two PA-certified Energy Auditors, and the office team includes a Weatherization Specialist and two Weatherization Representatives.

y Using the Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding, CALV energy auditors conduct home audits and manage the weatherization of homes with state-certified contractors. In the past year, 23 audits were completed and another 11 are in the post-inspection phase.

y The Weatherization Program repaired 14 homes with Department of Energy Readiness Funding, with 9 jobs in the final inspection phase. Homes were deferred from weatherization due to issues such as outdated knob-andtube wiring, leaking roofs, leaking plumbing, excessive water infiltration in the basement, and HVAC issues. Once these homes were repaired, they were weatherized using DOE funding.

y 23 homes were weatherized under UGI Low Income Usage Reduction Program. Participants in this program receive a whole home energy audit from our state-certified weatherization companies, and they also receive a clean and tune on their gas heating system.

y 52 homes received audits and weatherization services using First Energy’s WARM funds. This program gives a whole home audit if the home is heated with electricity and a full weatherization job based off the auditor’s findings. If the home is heated by gas, propane, or oil, the home receives a baseload audit, and qualifying items such as refrigerators and lightbulbs are replaced.

From July 1st, 2024, to June 30th, 2025, CACLV’s Weatherization Department completed the following

y Using funds from the 2023-2024 fiscal year, 52 homes were served during July and August 2024 under the LIHEAP Cooling Program. During the 2024-2025 fiscal year, 4 participants had their outdated central air conditioners replaced, while addressing the attached heating system during LIHEAP Crisis. Unfortunately, this program was closed at the end of November 2024 due to the reduced LIHEAP funding available to the state.

y 50 participants were able to get a clean and tune to their heating systems as part of the LIHEAP Clean and Tune program. This program was created during the pandemic to help reduce the number of heating system emergencies.

y During the LIHEAP Crisis season, CALV’s HVAC subcontractors restored heat to 205 homes in the Lehigh Valley. 79 of these homes had their entire heating systems replaced.

HOUSING COUNSELING

The mission of Community Action’s Housing Counseling Program is to provide low-to-moderate income families with a continuum of coordinated services in one location to better meet their housing and consumer credit needs and to build individual and community wealth.

In Fiscal Year 2025, 52 families who utilized services through the Housing Counseling Program purchased their first home.

y 7 first-time homebuyer seminars were conducted, providing 8 hours of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved education. 184 prospective homebuyers earned a certificate of completion by attending a seminar. 3 seminars were conducted in Spanish and 4 in English. 3 seminars were held virtually, 2 seminars were held in Allentown, and 2 seminars were held in Bethlehem.

y 53 prospective homebuyers received pre-purchase counseling.

y 61 homebuyers received pre-settlement counseling.

y 43 financially distressed homeowners received default and delinquency counseling including 29 homeowners through Northampton County’s Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program and 14 homeowners through Lehigh County’s Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program; 26 households were saved from foreclosure through a loan modification repayment plan, reinstatement, or rescue funds. Out of the 43 homeowners served through the diversion programs, 9 cases remain under review for potential modifications.

y 2 delinquent homeowners received Loss Mitigation services. Our Housing Counselors provided counseling and assisted homeowners in submitting a workout packet to their lender for a loan modification or repayment plan.

y 31 homeowners received assistance in applying to the Homeowners’ Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP). Our Housing Counselors provided counseling and assisted homeowners in submitting an application to HEMAP.

y The Housing Counseling Program continues its partnership with the City of Bethlehem to offer the Bethlehem Homebuyer Assistance Program. This program provides down payment and closing cost assistance in the form of a deferred payment loan to first-time homebuyers who purchase in the City of Bethlehem, are at 80% median income or below, and meet other eligibility requirements. The loan is completely forgiven if the homebuyer lives in the home for 10 years. There are 22 participating lenders for the program.

On the hottest day of July, 10 college students from Cedar Crest College came to the Shelter to volunteer. They rolled up their sleeves and got to work cleaning apartments, reorganizing inventory, and helping in the Family Resource Center. The students were so eager to help that day. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of the Sixth Street Shelter. They keep us going and are right next to us with boots on the ground.

Total Volunteer Hours: 748.5

The Sixth Street Shelter is a 60- to 90day short-term housing and supportive services program for families with children under 18 experiencing homelessness. The Sixth Street Shelter advocates that affordable housing is a human right while helping families secure safe housing through family-centered services, in-house programming, and referrals to community resources.

We have a new shelter with the same purpose and legacy.

This year, the Sixth Street Shelter went through some big changes. One of the biggest was training the staff in Trauma Informed Practices. Through the training, our staff learned to meet our guests where they are and not revictimize them in any way. Our program is now strength-based and person-centered, allowing our guests to be active in their goals. They have responsibility and accountability.

New positions were created with intentionality to support the whole family.

Our Family Engagement Coach works directly with our families, lessening Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and we walk with intent with our parents, using the Parents as Partner model.

The Family Resource Center has been closed since the pandemic. We re-organized the space, adding different play areas and many books that were specifically chosen for the children. Now, it is a thriving space, where children are seen and heard. Parents can also receive résumé assistance, practice interviewing skills, and use laptops and iPads there.

This space holds a very special moment for one little boy, who was nonverbal. During a Reading Rainbow event, this little boy spoke his first words. His parents sat close by, listening and watching with tears of joy in their eyes. He is now forming full sentences, can name shapes, and is thriving.

Zander, our Family Engagement Coach, has not been with the Shelter long but is building a sweet relationship with a beautiful little girl who happens to look like the 1930s actress Shirley Temple. She was very shy at first but warmed right up to Zander. Now when she sees Zander she runs straight to him and yells ”my buddy.”

We have seen a mom whose daughter has tremendous trauma fight for her daughter to get the necessary mental health support. We are watching a broken little girl become whole again. The mother finally obtained housing for her family after many No’s. She comes to the Shelter every Friday with a grateful heart.

The Sixth Street Shelter is a community for our residents. Here is where they learn to trust people again and invite us to be part of their journey of ending homelessness.

Above on the right is Josiah. He and his girlfriend, Kandy, came to the Shelter after having to leave their home due to an infestation of bugs. Kandy was eight months pregnant and was at high risk. They were living in their car and on the streets. Upon coming to the Sixth Street Shelter, the couple achieved all of their goals and would help out whenever they were needed. Kandy eventually gave birth to a baby boy, Felix, during their stay at the Shelter. When the family came back from the hospital, all the essentials for the baby were in place, thanks to the Shelter team.

The family was very appreciative of the Welcome Home Kit they received when they moved into stable housing. Welcome Home Kits contain essential household items, including one small appliance and a gift card for dinner, so families don’t have to think about what to eat as they settle into their new space.

BUSINESS START-UP AND DEVELOPMENT

RISING TIDE

COMMUNITY LOAN FUND

TheRisingTide.org, @RisingTideCLF

Made loans to 16 different businesses. Of these:

12 were to businesses owned by low-to moderate-income individuals and/or located in low-to moderate–income census tracts.

8 were made to woman-owned businesses

6 were made to minority-owned businesses

As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), Rising Tide provided funding in excess of $1.1 million, bringing the total disbursement by the Rising Tide, to date, to about $14 million.

Businesses that received loans in 2024-2025 were 4 eateries, an artist, a brewery, a vending company, a coffee shop, a childcare center, a film maker, a shipping company, an art studio, a salon, a plant shop, a perfume store, and a transportation company.

• The 16 funded businesses reported the creation or retention of 99 jobs.

• Provided no-cost marketing services to 35 businesses. Services provided included, but were not limited to, web design, logo design, social media assistance, and the creation of marketing materials.

• Administered the Lehigh and Northampton Counties Revolving Loan Fund.

• The Rising Tide Community Loan Fund is a separately incorporated subsidiary of Community Action Lehigh Valley.

Whiff Shop

YOUTH

GENERATION NEXT

Generation Next is a college readiness, access, and completion program created to correct disparities in education. Our program ensures that students of color, first-generation college students, and/ or low-income students have increased access to opportunities that will further their education. The program works with students to achieve college admission, integrate into college life, and complete a postsecondary program or trade focus.

• 85 students participated in the Generation Next Program.

• 100% of seniors graduated high school.

• Partnered with 3 schools in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton Area school districts

y 16 post high school graduates received Generation Next tuition scholarships ranging from $500-$1,500.

y Curriculum included college application assistance, FAFSA events, SAT tools, networking events, resume development, college exploration and personal development.

y Community guest speakers included: Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley to discuss healthy relationships, Northampton Community College to discuss dual enrollment, special majors, workforce trends and more, as well as partnership from PA Dream Team - Lehigh Valley which showcases volunteers from surrounding trade/ manufacturing companies such as Crayola, Bosch Rexroth, C.F. Martin Guitar, Victaulic and many more wonderful community volunteers!

y Students attended many college and university tours, including Lehigh University, Penn State Lehigh Valley, East Stroudsburg University, Northampton Community College, Lehigh Carbon Community College, Lafayette College, Moravian University, and Howard University and American University in Washington D.C.

y Career exploration trips were organized to places such as Klein Farms, PBS 39, and Lehigh Valley International Airport.

y Events included speed networking, college admissions essay feedback, GN student alumni panelist discussion, mock job interviews, and more!

GENERATION NEXT

"You don’t have to know exactly where you’re going to know you’re meant to go far." - Kim K

When I first joined Generation Next, I was quiet, unsure, and honestly… tired. Tired of trying to figure everything out alone. As a Kenyan immigrant and first-generation student, there were so many moments where I felt like I was walking through the college process blindfolded, pretending like I had it all together, when in reality, I didn’t. My family supported me with love, but they had never done this before. And neither had I.

But something shifted the moment I stepped into Generation Next. We weren’t just learning about college, we were learning about ourselves. Between the SAT preps, personal statement, financial aid workshops, scholarships, the college tours, and the long talks about careers, I started to believe this dream of mine wasn’t too big after all. Maybe it was meant for me.

And I owe so much of that belief to Miss Amanda.

Miss Amanda Starner wasn’t just a program coordinator, she was everything. A mentor, a role model, a safe space. She helped me with things I didn’t even know how to ask for. Personally, professionally, academically, she was always there. Whether it was editing my college essays repeatedly

or talking me through a moment of doubt, she never gave up on me. I truly wouldn’t have made it this far without her.

One of my favorite memories was our D.C. trip. We toured Howard and American Universities, and also explored the Smithsonian Museum. That day was fun, yet eye opening. That trip reminded me that I could actually see myself in those spaces. And the fact that she took the time to plan something so meaningful for us just shows the heart she has for her students. Miss Amanda never just showed up, she showed out— every time.

Now, I’m proud to say that I’ll be attending Penn State University Park to major in Biomedical Engineering and minor in IST Health Policy and Administration. That still feels crazy to say. I'm proud of who I’ve become: a young woman ready to create change in healthcare, especially for underserved communities like the one I come from. I want to be the person others can rely on in their most vulnerable moments, because I know what it’s like to need that.

I’m excited to grow, to meet people who inspire me, and to explore everything that college has to offer. Of course, I’m nervous too, leaving home, stepping into something new, figuring it all out. But Generation Next taught me that even when you’re nervous, you still move forward. You still show up. And that’s what I plan to do.

The lessons I’ve learned through Generation Next are coming with me. I’ve learned how to advocate

for myself, how to ask for help, and how to use my voice. Those lessons don’t stop at the Gen Next graduation. They’ll carry me through every step of my college journey and beyond.

Being a first-generation student means breaking barriers and opening doors, not just for myself but for all those coming after me. I want every first gen to know that they can overcome the barrier. And I plan to carry everything I’ve learned with me.

To the next class of Generation Next students: Keep showing up, even when you're unsure. Even when it’s hard. Even when it feels like you’re the only one in the room who doesn’t have it all figured out, because I promise you, you’re not. Just keep taking it one step at a time. Your journey is your’s. Own it.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t shrink yourself. Keep pushing. This program will give you the tools, but you hold the power to build something amazing with them. Generation Next didn’t just help me prepare for college, it helped me realize that I’m capable of anything.

Always remember, “You were never meant to fit into the mold, you were born to break it.”

To Miss Amanda: Thank you for showing up for me in every way. You believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself, and you never stopped rooting for me. I would not be here, writing this, without you. Thank you beyond words.

- Kim K, 2025 Generation Next Graduate

THE TRANSITION AND RECONFIGURATION of the S.H.E. Program

Community Action’s S.H.E. Program, an acronym standing for and dedicated to Self-esteem, Health, and Education for young girls in the Lehigh Valley, has long been a cornerstone of our youth initiatives. However, due to significant funding cuts and strategic realignment, our organization made the difficult decision to discontinue direct management of the program. Recognizing the profound impact S.H.E. had on dozens of girls across the region, we were determined not to let its legacy fade. Instead, we sought a partner who could carry the torch forward with equal passion and expertise.

After careful consideration and outreach, Fine Feather Foundation emerged as the ideal steward for S.H.E. The Foundation, led by founder and Executive Director Andrene Nowell, was already deeply engaged in youth-oriented programming and had a history of collaboration with our Community Action Development Allentown Program. Andrene’s commitment to holistic youth development, especially in the realms of mental health, the arts, and technology, aligned perfectly with the evolving vision for S.H.E. The transition was further strengthened by the

involvement of Murat Guzel, one of the original funders of S.H.E., who had previously worked with Alan Jennings to launch the program. Their continued support ensured that the program’s values and mission would remain intact.

Fine Feather Foundation’s approach to youth programming is rooted in healing through the arts and providing specialized support for children facing trauma, behavioral challenges, and other barriers. The new iteration of S.H.E. will integrate mental health resources, creative arts, and technology, aiming to deepen its impact and reach even more students. Plans are underway to reintroduce the program in Lehigh Valley schools by January 2026, with an expanded curriculum that includes STEM, coding, creative writing, and resilience-building activities. The Foundation’s inclusive philosophy ensures that all students, regardless of background or circumstance, will have access to these transformative opportunities.

FOOD ACCESS AND NUTRITION

The Gnar Garden

Doe Mountain Produce

• 15.4 million pounds of food sourced

• 15.8 million pounds of food distributed

• 13,170,276 meals distributed across the service area

• 3.8 million pounds of fresh produce, perishable protein, and fresh dairy products distributed.

• 10 million pounds rescued from winding up in a landfill

• 27,449 boxes of nutritious food distributed to 2,355 low-income seniors through the PA Senior Food Box Program

• More than 550 military families participating in our MilitaryShare food box program each month

• We provided food to an average of 124,000 individuals monthly during the fiscal year, including 28,376 children and 14,857 seniors. (The total individuals includes people served at meal centers)

• Total Volunteer hours: 4,785

SECOND HARVEST

FOOD BANK

SHFBLV.org, @SecondHarvestLV

Second Harvest Food Bank works to eliminate food insecurity by providing nutritious food, dismantling access barriers, and advocating for health and racial equity. Second Harvest partners with more than 200 emergency food providers across six counties to provide children, seniors, and families with fresh and nutritious groceries.

In addition to food distribution to our network, Second Harvest operates several programs aimed at improving the health of our community and working toward a more just and equitable local food system:

y Administering supplemental nutrition programs for seniors and military families

y Providing training and access to land for new and emerging farmers

y Offering nutrition education for food pantry participants

y Leading advocacy efforts to increase food access for everyone

THE SEED FARM

As a program of Second Harvest Food Bank, The Seed Farm works to support food production at all levels, from home gardeners to community gardens to local farmers. Strong local food systems equals food security.

In our Agricultural Business Incubator, we provide beginning farmers with affordable access to land, infrastructure, equipment, technical assistance, and more, so that they can start their farm businesses. Our Growing Partners raised bed program increases access to nutritious, fresh foods for neighbors in low-income urban environments and provides opportunities to grow food and gain gardening confidence. Through our Farm to Pantry program, The Seed Farm grows and harvests high-demand produce for the Food Bank.

Our Impact Stats:

4 beginning farm businesses continued in the Agricultural Business Incubator program

1 beginning farmer launched a new farm business at The Seed Farm

Blackbird Farms

4 acres leased to farmers in our Agricultural Business Incubator program

Incubator farmers spent 74.5 hours using our tractors

25,000+ organically-grown transplants sold at our Fall & Spring Plant Sales

5300+ transplants provided to community groups who grow fresh food for neighbors in need

8 educational workshops with 6 guest trainers and 116 total attendees

43 technical assistance visits to 6 food pantry gardens

ADVOCACY

This year we:

• Partnered with 7 therapists –most of whom are therapists of color serving the Lehigh Valley – to provide 12 therapy sessions to residents in need, at no cost to them.

• 16 individuals were served at the Sixth Street Shelter in their healing journey.

• Assisted therapists in evaluating, scheduling, and delivering both in-person and virtual sessions for convenience.

• Participants were able to receive services within 24 to 48 hours of requesting assistance.

• Providing mental health services to the guests at the Sixth Street Shelter, as well as community at large, aligns with the Shelter’s vision of providing trauma-informed care, and remaining a safe and healing place for all families.

MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

In January 2024, Community Action Lehigh Valley launched an initiative to combat the stigma around mental health services in communities of color. The Sixth Street Shelter continued this program that originated from the Color Outside the Lines initiative.

HOW TO SUPPORT

Sistah Seeds

You can give through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program to help you receive credit on your tax return when you support Community Action or one of our eligible programs.

Scan the QR code to give:

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

MAIL A CHECK

Community Action Lehigh Valley Attn: Philanthropy 1337 East 5th Street | Bethlehem, PA 18015

If you’d like your donation to support a specific program, please write that on the check memo or attach a note.

DONATE ONLINE

Our online form makes it quick and easy to donate. Please visit our website at CommunityActionLV.org/Donate.

RECURRING DONATION

Your monthly gift helps us continue to offer our programs and resources to the people who need it most. Visit CommunityActionLV.org/Donate and select ‘Recurring Donation’ to set up your monthly, quarterly, or annual gift.

MATCHING GIFTS

Your workplace may have a matching gifts program that will double your donation! To find out if you’re eligible, please visit CommunityAction.org/MatchingGifts.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

To learn how you can sponsor an event or program, please contact Sandra Bieber, Chief Philanthropy Officer at sbieber@caclv.org or 484.788.3216.

1337 East 5th Street

Bethlehem, PA 18015

LEAVE A LEGACY

Fighting For Good Society members are friends who have chosen to join us in the fight to change the lives of people in the Lehigh Valley by including a planned gift in their will or estate. By naming Community Action Lehigh Valley in your will, donating assets, or establishing an endowment fund, you help ensure that our programs and services will be available for many years to come. Visit our donation page under Legacy Giving to learn more. for families in the Lehigh Valley.

To donate to Community Action online, scan the QR code. Or visit our donate page through communityactionlv.org to learn more about workplace matching gifts, legacy giving, and recurring donations to your favorite Community Action programs.