The Morning Call has officially launched its 26th annual Be an Angel campaign, aiming to support individuals and families in need throughout the Lehigh Valley. This year, the campaign comes at a time of heightened economic pressure, as many residents face rising costs for essential goods and services. Nonprofit organizations in the region, which provide critical support ranging from food assistance to healthcare, are increasingly challenged by budget cuts and escalating expenses.
The holiday season typically encourages reflection on gratitude and generosity. Yet for many, this year brings an added burden as they struggle to meet their basic needs. The Be an Angel campaign invites community members to contribute to improving the lives of those less fortunate by fulfilling specific wishes from local nonprofits. A comprehensive wish list is available at mcall.com/beanangel.
Community Needs Highlighted in Annual Campaign
Each year, the campaign compiles a list of urgent needs identified by various organizations. This year’s requests reflect the pressing challenges faced by local families. For instance, the Northern Lehigh Food Pantry is seeking essential supplies such as laundry detergent and personal care items, while the Parkland C.A.R.E.S Food Bank is requesting gift cards to purchase food and toiletries for its clients.
Amarelis Rodriguez, an advocate at the Lehigh Conference of Churches in Allentown, emphasized the impact of rising living costs on the community. “So many families and individuals are feeling the impact of rising costs and limited resources. Donations give us the opportunity to meet people where they are, offering hope, help, and a reminder that they’re not alone,” Rodriguez stated. The organization is in need of warm clothing items, including hats, gloves, and sleeping bags, to assist the homeless population.
New Bethany, another nonprofit focusing on homeless support in Bethlehem, is also appealing for winter camping supplies and heavy blankets to ensure that vulnerable individuals remain warm during the colder months.
Encouraging Community Support and Generosity
As part of the campaign, donations can be made until January 1, 2026, allowing individuals ample time to contribute. The Be an Angel initiative has historically received a warm response from the community, raising nearly $6.2 million since its inception. Last year alone, contributions exceeded $275,400 in tangible goods. These figures do not account for the invaluable time and skills volunteered by community members, which many agencies cite as their most significant asset.
This year’s wish list includes practical items that address real needs. Organizations like Helping Hands Ministry in Emerald have put out a call for a commercial food vacuum sealer and a pallet jack to improve their operations. Meanwhile, Community Bikeworks is accepting bicycles of all conditions to support their Earn a Bike program, which teaches at-risk youth valuable skills.
The Community Music School in Allentown and Cops ‘n’ Kids Children’s Literacy Program are also participating by seeking donations of musical instruments and books, respectively, to support children in need.
As the campaign progresses, the emphasis remains on community involvement and the collective effort to aid those facing hardship. The Be an Angel campaign not only seeks to fulfill specific needs but also aims to foster a spirit of togetherness in the Lehigh Valley.
Rodriguez reflects on the essence of the initiative, stating, “It truly takes a community coming together to support those facing challenging times.” The call for action is clear: even the smallest contribution can have a profound impact on the lives of others during this holiday season.
