Scranton Charities Will Launch 50th Thanksgiving Program

The Friends of the Poor and Catherine McCauley Center will distribute thousands of meals this November in Scranton.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Philanthropy

A stack of plain cardboard meal containers on a brick ledge, conveying a sense of organized charity effort in late autumn. — The Friends of the Poor and Catherine McCauley Center will distribute 4,000 prepared meals in Scranton on November 24, 2026, marking the program's 50th anniversary. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is the demand for community Thanksgiving meal programs increasing in your area this year?

The Friends of the Poor and Catherine McCauley Center will host their 50th annual Thanksgiving program on November 24, 2026. This milestone event aims to provide 4,000 prepared meals to residents across Lackawanna and Luzerne counties.

Why it matters

Organizers highlight the rising cost of food as a key reason for the importance of these initiatives. The program serves as a critical support system for seniors and families during the holiday season.

The initiative expects to serve 4,000 prepared meals, including 1,500 designated for senior high-rise residents. Additionally, the Family to Family program will distribute 3,500 food baskets to mark its 40th anniversary.

The players

Sister Judy O'Brien

She serves as the new president and CEO of the Friends of the Poor and Catherine McCauley Center.

Friends of the Poor and Catherine McCauley Center

These organizations provide charitable services and food assistance to residents in the Scranton area.

The details

The program provides support through drive-through or walk-up service at the Scranton Cultural Center, with a limit of two dinners per vehicle. Families in need will also receive aid from the long-standing Family to Family program.

November 13, 2026: Interfaith prayer service and potluck dinner.
November 24, 2026: Annual Thanksgiving Community Dinner.
November 25, 2026: Thanksgiving food basket distribution.

Market Landscape

The expansion of this assistance program reflects a broader trend of local non-profits scaling operations to meet rising community food insecurity. This shift positions these organizations as essential safety nets during periods of high economic inflation.

Residents requiring assistance can access prepared meals via drive-through or walk-up options at the Scranton Cultural Center. Those planning to pick up dinners should note the limit of two meals per vehicle.

The takeaway

Community-led food programs continue to play a vital role in mitigating the impact of rising grocery costs for vulnerable families. Residents are encouraged to check local service updates to ensure timely access to holiday support.