News

Community Comes Together and Raises $27,000 to Support Residents and First Responders Affected by the Hotel Hampton Fire in Easton

February 27, 2026
Easton Fire Fund Thank You graphic

In less than one week, community members came together to raise more than $27,000 to support residents and first responders affected by last Friday’s fire at the Hotel Hampton in Easton.

One hundred percent of the funds raised will be directed toward assisting displaced residents and the fire companies that responded to the emergency. United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley will begin distributing these funds today to ensure timely support reaches those in need.

We extend our sincere appreciation to BSI Corporate Benefits and its owners, Easton residents Tony and Adrienne DaRe, for their generous contributions in support of two of the fire companies involved in the response efforts.

Donations are still being accepted to aid ongoing recovery efforts. Donations can be made online at www.unitedwayglv.org/donate by selecting “Fire Fund.” Contributions via check may be made payable to UWGLV, 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109, Attention “Easton Fire Fund.” Additionally, individuals interested in making a donation can text “REBUILD” to 40403.

Donate Today

For additional information or questions on the fund, contact Laura McHugh at 610-504-9452.

News

United Way and Partners Launch Emergency Response Fund Following Hotel Hampton Fire in Easton

February 23, 2026

In response to a devastating fire at the Hotel Hampton in Easton on February 20, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and local partners have established an emergency relief fund to provide immediate assistance to those affected.

The fire at the hotel at 462 Northampton Street in downtown Easton also affected two adjoining properties, displacing a total of 40 adults. The American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter provided relief to the impacted residents in the immediate aftermath of the fire, including shelter, food, and emergency supplies. The organization is actively assisting displaced residents and has opened a shelter at nearby Paxinosa Elementary School.

Now, United Way will work with partners including Greater Easton Development Partnership to provide long-term assistance with 100% of funds going to aid those affected by this disaster.

Donations can be made online at www.unitedwayglv.org/donate by selecting “Fire Fund.” Contributions via check may be made payable to UWGLV, 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109, Attention “Easton Fire Fund.” Additionally, individuals interested in making a donation can text “REBUILD” to 40403.

Donate Today

For additional information or questions on the fund, contact Laura McHugh at 610-504-9452.

News

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley Awarded Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Grant to Support Dementia Caregivers

February 19, 2026

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley has been awarded a $6,000 biannual grant from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), recognizing our commitment to supporting caregivers of individuals living with dementia.

The funding will support the reintroduction of the Savvy Caregiver Mixer, a social and educational component of the nationally recognized Savvy Caregiver Program. Designed to address isolation and stress among caregivers, the mixers provide meaningful peer connection, skill reinforcement and access to respite care.

Over the next year, the grant will allow United Way to host additional Savvy Caregiver Mixers for up to 100 caregivers, including free respite care made possible through community partnerships. These gatherings strengthen peer support networks, improve caregiver well-being and reinforce practical dementia care skills.

This initiative directly advances United Way’s focus on healthy aging and community resilience, ensuring caregivers feel supported while improving quality of care for individuals living with dementia.

News

Community Scores Big for Food Access during Air Products Night at the Lehigh Valley Phantoms Phantoms featuring United Way

February 18, 2026

On January 17th, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms teamed up with United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley for Air Products Night. This special event invited fans to bring ramen noodle donations to support the Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania.

The event was a fun night out for hockey, community and meaningful support for neighbors facing food insecurity. Fans were able to donate, participate in the 50/50 raffle, play our Chuck-A-Puck game and interact with Air Products and United Way staff and volunteers.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, the event collected:

  • 4,168 meals’ worth of Ramen
  • $3,580.92 from the 50/50 Raffle
  • $176 from the Chuck-A-Puck game

A huge thanks to all who donated and participated in the night’s events and to Air Products and the Lehigh Valley Phantoms for their support.

  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms
  • Air Products Night at the Phantoms

News

UNITED, Kids Thrive: Community Schools Showcase Academic Growth and Family Stability in 2025

February 11, 2026

At United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, we believe that when we are UNITED, kids thrive. That belief comes to life in our Community Schools, where academic support, family engagement and basic needs services work together to create stability and opportunity for students and families across the region.

Students enrolled in United Way Community Schools demonstrated academic growth across the network during the 2024-25 school year, as highlighted in the 2025 Annual Report.

United Way Community Schools demonstrated academic growth across the network

Network-wide results show:

  • Literacy and math proficiency increased across the network
  • 85% of students identified as needing behavioral health support were connected to services
  • 81% of participating youth reported an increased sense of belonging or improved social-emotional skills

These results reflect the strength of the Community School model, which integrates academics, mental health services, family engagement and basic needs support to remove barriers and help students succeed.

“Our Community Schools, with some of the most challenges, are showing the most growth, outpacing other schools statewide supported by the systems Community School Coordinators build alongside our educators, families and community partners,” said Khushboo Jain, Director of the United Way’s Community School Network. 

United Way Community Schools serve 19,744 students across 34 public schools in Allentown, Bethlehem Area, Easton Area, Bangor Area and Panther Valley school districts, along with Salvaggio Academy.

Community Schools strengthen academic success by addressing both classroom learning and the barriers that impact it. During the 2024-25 school year:

  • 1,609 children participated in United Way-funded early education programs
  • 1,816 students engaged in summer learning programs
  • 2,992 students accessed dental and vision care
  • 5,596 families increased food access

Through strong partnerships and generous donor support, Community Schools continue building the foundation for long-term success for students, families and neighborhoods across the Greater Lehigh Valley.

View the Full Report

News

February 11 Is 211 Day: A Lifeline for Our Community

February 11, 2026
Call 211 for help with housing, utilities, food, caregiving

Every day, thousands of people across the Greater Lehigh Valley face urgent challenges. When housing is unstable, food is scarce or a crisis feels overwhelming, knowing where to turn matters. That’s why February 11, known as 211 Day, is an important opportunity to recognize PA 211 and the role it plays in connecting people to critical support.

PA 211 is a free, confidential service available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It connects residents to essential health and human services, including housing assistance, food access, utility support, transportation and more. In moments of uncertainty, 211 serves as a trusted starting point for help.

While the total number of connections fluctuates year to year, the need for support through PA 211 remains significant and evolving. In 2025, housing and shelter continued to be the most requested services, while requests for food, health care, utilities and other essential needs increased by 52% from 2024, signaling growing pressure on families across the Greater Lehigh Valley.

211 by the Numbers

  • 15,390 connections to resources through the PA 211 health and human services helpline
  • 62.6% of requests related to housing and shelter
  • 37.4% of requests for food, health care, utilities and other needs, a 52% increase from 2024

PA 211 is powered by trained resource specialists who guide callers through available options and connect them with local programs. This work is strengthened through partnerships that expand both access to services and pathways to opportunity.

One such partnership is with Bloom for Women, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sex trafficking and exploitation. Through Bloom’s Flourish Workforce Development Program, survivors are trained to work on the PA 211 call line, offering compassionate support to others while gaining valuable skills and meaningful employment.

This collaboration reflects how 211 does more than respond to crisis. It helps build resilience. Survivors bring lived experience, empathy and insight to their work, while PA 211 provides a supportive environment and clear pathways toward economic stability. Together, they demonstrate how community solutions can meet immediate needs while creating long-term impact.

On this 211 Day, we recognize the essential role PA 211 plays in our region. It is a lifeline for individuals and families and a powerful example of how partnership, compassion and connection help our community move forward.

News

TeenWorks Celebrates 27 Years of Youth Leadership and Service

February 10, 2026
VIEW PHOTO GALLERY

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and its community partners recently came together to celebrate the 27th annual TeenWorks Dinner, an event dedicated to recognizing the incredible achievements of young leaders committed to making a difference. Speakers of the event included Teen Board Chair, Polina Dorma; President and CEO of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Marci Lesko;and Keynote Speaker, John Leonard.

During the evening, attendees honored the impact of multiple TeenWorks projects, highlighting the dedication and hard work of local youth in serving their communities. The TeenWorks Project of the Year, Zach Krauss Spirit of Service and TeenWorks Hero were a few of the awards presented.

The TeenWorks Project of the Year recognizes an impactful contribution to their community by identifying a need and creating a solution. This year’s award was presented to Lucian Meckley and Rylan Preletz.

The Zach Krauss Spirit of Service Award recognizes a student or group of students who have demonstrated a commitment to making their community a better place to live by completing an outstanding, altruistic project that was innovative, meaningful and impacted people in their community. This year’s award was presented to Polina Dorman.

The TeenWorks Hero Award is given to a person who demonstrates a commitment to the ideals and purpose of the TeenWorks mission. Someone who embodies the qualities of hard work, honesty, and a commitment to giving back to his/her community through acts of compassion and selflessness. This year’s award was presented to Capital Blue Cross.

TeenWorks is made up of a diverse group of local middle and high school students and local members of organized labor. The group meets monthly and helps to fund community service projects throughout the Lehigh Valley from various youth groups. Over 500 organizations have received grants of up to $1,000 for their projects.

This annual celebration not only acknowledges the hard work of TeenWorks participants but also strengthens the spirit of volunteerism and service within the Greater Lehigh Valley community.

To learn more about TeenWorks, apply for funding or get involved, visit www.unitedwayglv.org/teenworks.

News

United Way Recognizes PPL’s Long-Standing Support of Housing, Food Access and Emergency Services

February 09, 2026

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and PPL Foundation are proud to announce Powered by PPL, a new initiative in recognition of PPL’s long-standing support of critical services across the region. Through this commitment, United Way acknowledges PPL Foundation as the leading partner in support of Community Stability programs that reach approximately 100,000 people each year, helping families meet urgent needs related to housing, food access, disaster response and crisis support.

“United Way and PPL share a deep commitment to strengthening the communities we call home,” said Lissette Santana, President of the PPL Foundation. “The Powered by PPL initiative builds on decades of collaboration to support the essential services families rely on every day – from emergency shelter to food access to crisis response. We’re honored to stand alongside United Way and our nonprofit partners as we work together to create a more stable and hopeful future for thousands of people across the region.”

In the past ten years, PPL Foundation, along with employees and retirees from PPL companies, have contributed more than $55 million to local United Ways in the communities they serve across Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Kentucky.  

“The support and leadership at PPL are unparalleled from gifts of financial support to acts of service. This new initiative recognizes PPL’s unique position as United Way’s longest and deepest partner in driving change across the regions we serve together,” said Marci Lesko, United Way GLV President and Chief Executive Officer.

Powered by PPL will strengthen community stability with a portfolio of more than 40 programs and partnerships. Together, these services support emergency shelter and housing, food access, disaster relief, emergency fire response, the PA 211 resource line and regional homeless and housing coordination.

The initiative expands upon United Way’s Be a Housing Hero initiative in partnership with PPL Foundation, which has provided emergency shelter for 2,500 people and emergency rental assistance for 164 families since 2023. To date, 100 percent of participating families have maintained stable housing, prevented eviction and avoided homelessness thanks to the innovative program.

To learn more about the Community Stability portfolio Powered by PPL, visit www.unitedwayglv.org/community-stability.

News

Round Up to Donate at Weis

January 07, 2026
Weis Round Up

United Way and Weis Markets partner to offer you another way to support your community. All round-ups at self-checkout during January 2026 will directly support your local United Way.

So, choose YES when checking out to support your neighbors in need.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley is proud to partner with our local businesses and organizations to develop innovative ways to give back to our community.

News

United Way Recognizes Outgoing Board Member, Joané Hockenbury, for Her Many Years of Service and Leadership

January 02, 2026
Thank You Joané Hockenbury

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley extends our gratitude to Joané Hockenbury of People Centered Solutions, LLC for her time, service and deep commitment as a member of our Board of Directors. Her leadership and dedication have helped guide our mission and strengthen our work across the region.

Joané has over 30 years’ experience as a business professional and Human Resources leader. She is the founder and CEO of People Centered Solutions, LLC which specializes in Human Resource Consulting and Coaching. Joané is passionate about helping people to recognize their unique abilities and achieve their potential. She believes the intrinsic desire to help others mixed with creativity and ingenuity provides the springboard to positively impact the future of our communities. 

Prior to People Centered Solutions, she worked for Just Born Quality Confections beginning her career there as the Receptionist and was promoted to many different roles of increasing responsibility within the organization while she continued her education. When she retired in January 2024, she held the position of Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resource Officer and was a member of the Executive Team. As a member of the Executive Team, she was responsible for developing and delivering the organization’s strategic plan as well as all aspects of Human Resources, Environmental Safety & Health and Internal Communications.

She is an avid volunteer and is currently serving on the Dementia Friendly Lehigh Valley Steering Committee and LINC’s Executive Committee and the Board. She is past President of Society of Human Resource Management Lehigh Valley as well as past President of Dream Come True. She also served on the Bethlehem Area Vocational Technical School Advisory Board and Board Member of Northeast Community Center. 

Joané received her master’s degree in Organizational Development and Leadership from St. Joseph’s University and a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources from Muhlenberg College.  Joané holds a PHR, SHRM-CP as well as certifications in Change Management; Emotional Intelligence; DiSC®; Crucial Conversations and is a Master Certified Professional Coach.

She and her husband, Terry, have two children and three amazing grandchildren.