Scranton Food Pantry Sees Demand Rise 50 Percent

Angel's Attic is reporting a sharp increase in requests for food and clothing aid as seasonal financial pressures mount.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Philanthropy

Scranton Food Pantry Sees Demand Rise 50 Percent

Live Poll

Is it becoming harder for families in your community to afford food and heating this year?

Angel's Attic in Scranton is currently serving 600 people per week, marking a 50% increase in demand compared to the same period last year. The surge in requests for food and clothing comes as local families face rising costs and holiday expenses.

Why it matters

Rising expenses and colder seasonal temperatures are placing a significant financial strain on area households. This increase in food insecurity highlights the growing reliance on local support services to cover basic necessities like heat and groceries.

The pantry currently assists 600 individuals weekly, representing a 50% increase from the 400 served at this time last year. By 11:30 a.m. on October 22, 2026, the facility had already provided aid to over 50 people.

The players

Angel's Attic

This is a local pantry and social service organization that provides food, clothing, and financial assistance to residents of Scranton and the surrounding region.

The details

Angel's Attic provides food and clothing alongside referrals for housing, rent, and utility assistance. Staff and volunteers perform needs assessments to connect individuals with case managers who help address food insecurity and ongoing financial challenges.

The pantry operates Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The facility is open until 7 p.m. every Tuesday.
The organization recorded serving 50 people by 11:30 a.m. on October 22, 2026.
Demand for services is expected to climb throughout November and December 2026.

Market Landscape

The current surge in pantry demand in Scranton mirrors the established pattern where lower temperatures cause immediate spikes in requests for assistance as families reallocate budgets for heating. This highlights the volatility of essential service needs when seasonal economic pressures align.

Families struggling with food or utility costs can visit the pantry to register for services and meet with case managers. Residents looking to help can donate nonperishable food items or clothing to support the organization during this high-demand period.

The takeaway

Increased demand during the colder months often stresses community resources, making timely donations of food and clothing vital. Residents should check their household budgets early for heating adjustments as winter utility costs begin to rise.