A Summit Hill nonprofit organization that aims to help the community in times of need has received $4,000 to continue its mission.

The St. Vincent de Paul Society of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley was recently selected for the grant from the Diocese of Allentown Local Poverty Relief Fund.

The grant will help provide residents in need with support in the form of food, fresh produce, clothing, furniture, heating assistance, transitional housing and community meals.

“We are so thankful for this continued support and the opportunity to continue our service to others,” the society posted on its Facebook page.

Christine LeClair, president of the society, said this is the second time the organization received this grant.

LeClair said that last year was a “quiet” year because of the pandemic, but the society continues to move forward making sure there are enough supplies if someone calls.

Last year, the St. Vincent de Paul Society received over 225 calls for assistance and provided services to 370 adults and 290 children with various services including requests for food, oil, homelessness, clothing, furniture and help with funeral expenses.

In addition, volunteers helped with the Stand Down events for residents and veterans and the St. Joseph parishioners helped keep the food pantry stocked through food drives and gift card collections.

Because of the society’s impact in the community, LeClair pointed out that various entities within St. Joseph parish came together to put together 300 Christmas meals for parish shut-ins, local Meals on Wheels recipients and others in need; and thanks to so many donors, will be able to provide 300 meals again for Easter.

The society, in addition to the grant, 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 or grocery store gift cards, can do so by contacting the parish office.

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. Individuals seeking assistance do not need to apply or meet any set guidelines to receive support from the society.

For more information on the society, visit www.stjscatholicchurch.org/st-vincent-de-paul.