Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

An emergency food pantry in Summit Hill is doing just that.

The St. Vincent de Paul Society, a ministry of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley, helps those in need with emergency food pantry services, no matter their economic status, background or current situation.

“St. Vincent de Paul is a not-for-profit foundation that allows conferences like ours to help people in need through the community,” said John Horvath, president of the society.

Recently, the society received two grants totaling $17,200 to help in its mission — $10,000 from the Diocese of Allentown Poverty Relief Grant and $7,200 from St. Vincent de Paul USA.

“The grants received will help out tremendously throughout the year and into the future,” Horvath said. “If we look at the valley as a whole and measure it against other areas of the state, there is much need for assistance within the valley. The valley is well below the average income per household as compared to much of the state.”

The diocesan grant will be used with five different things, including expanding its food pantry, hosting community dinners throughout the year with other organizations in the Panther Valley, creating a community garden; expanding utilities support for the Panther Valley and beginning a clothing drive.

Plans for the national St. Vincent de Paul grant include introducing a literacy program, as well as programs to help create budgets for those needing help, Horvath said.

The society, in addition to the grants, depends on donations from parishioners, members of the community, the Salvation Army and other local organizations.

Anyone wishing to donate, which can be cash, check, grocery store gift cards, food items or toiletries, can do so by contacting the parish office. A list of items needed can be found at www.stjscatholicchurch.org/st-vincent-de-paul.

Those who need emergency food services through the society can call the parish office at 570-645-2664, select option 8 from the menu, and leave a message.

One of the society’s volunteers will then contact them to see how they can help.

Christine LeClair, secretary of the society, said that individuals seeking assistance do not need to apply or meet any set guidelines to receive support from the society.