Each fall, Montgomery County comes together for one of the most impactful charitable events on the local calendar: the annual Freedom from Hunger food drive. Now in its 12th year, this beloved community campaign has grown from a small post-event initiative into a powerful regional movement that helps feed thousands of families across southeastern Pennsylvania. With dozens of local businesses participating and ambitious donation goals on the horizon, this year’s drive promises to be the most meaningful yet.
A Quarter-Century Milestone and 250,000 Pounds of Hope
This year’s Freedom from Hunger campaign carries an extra layer of significance. As the nation prepares to celebrate America 250 , the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence , the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board has set an ambitious goal: to collect and donate a staggering 250,000 pounds of food in a single drive. That’s roughly 20,833 pounds per month, or about 580 pounds per day throughout the entire campaign.
The donated food directly supports the MontCo Anti-Hunger Network, an umbrella organization that channels resources to food pantries throughout Montgomery County. With food insecurity continuing to affect working families, seniors, and children across the region, the need for sustained community support has never been greater. Each can of soup, box of pasta, and jar of peanut butter donated through this effort represents hope for a neighbor in need.
From a Papal Visit to a Countywide Movement
The origins of Freedom from Hunger trace back to a moment that placed Montgomery County on the world stage. In 2015, Pope Francis visited the Philadelphia region for the World Meeting of Families, staying in Montgomery County during his historic trip. Inspired by the Pope’s message of compassion, service, and care for the most vulnerable members of society, local organizers launched the food drive the very same year.
What began as a grassroots response to a singular moment has blossomed into something far greater. Over twelve years, Freedom from Hunger has transformed into a unifying cause that brings together residents, business owners, civic groups, and visitors. The campaign has shown that even small acts of generosity , buying a latte, purchasing chocolates, or sipping a glass of wine , can collectively make a profound difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.
Local Businesses Step Up to Fight Hunger
One of the most inspiring aspects of the annual drive is the creative ways Montgomery County businesses contribute. Rather than simply writing a check, dozens of local establishments have crafted special products, promotions, and experiences that allow customers to support the cause through their everyday purchases. Here are just a few of the standout participants for this year’s Freedom from Hunger drive.
Sweet Ashley’s Chocolates: A Sweet Way to Give Back
Tucked along Buckwalter Road in Royersford, Sweet Ashley’s Chocolates has created a special Freedom from Hunger-inspired box of chocolates that is as delicious as it is meaningful. Owners Connie and Rob Lawson have poured their passion for fine handmade confections into a curated assortment that showcases their signature style. Available through the end of the year, these beautifully packaged boxes make wonderful holiday gifts for family and friends , or impressive corporate gifts for clients and colleagues. A portion of every sale goes directly toward fighting hunger in the community, making each purchase a delicious act of charity.
Cyrenity Sips: Pouring Hope, One Glass at a Time
For wine lovers looking to combine their passion for fine vintages with philanthropic purpose, Cyrenity Sips in Hatboro offers the perfect opportunity. Owner Shakia Williams has pledged to donate a portion of every wine tasting and bottle purchase to the Freedom from Hunger campaign beginning October 1 and running through the end of the drive. Located at 31 South York Road, this welcoming Hatboro winery provides a relaxed atmosphere to discover new favorite wines while contributing to a worthy cause. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about local wines, every glass poured at Cyrenity Sips now carries an extra measure of community impact.
Blossom Café: Where Coffee Meets Community
Skippack Village’s charming Blossom Café has brewed up something special for the Freedom from Hunger drive. Throughout the month of September, the café is donating one dollar from every purchase of their creative peanut butter fluff latte. This whimsical beverage combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic childhood treat with the rich, comforting qualities of a perfectly crafted latte , a true conversation starter that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious. Pair your drink with one of the café’s handmade pastries, browse the houseplants, or wander next door into the adjoining Floral & Hardy garden shop for a complete experience. Located at 4007 Skippack Pike, Blossom Café proves that fighting hunger can start with something as simple as a morning coffee run.
How You Can Get Involved
Whether you’re a longtime Montgomery County resident or visiting the area for the first time, there are countless ways to support the Freedom from Hunger campaign this season. Here are a few simple ways to make a difference:
- Visit a participating business. Enjoy chocolates from Sweet Ashley’s, sip wine at Cyrenity Sips, or grab a latte at Blossom Café. Your everyday spending becomes a contribution to the cause.
- Donate directly. Drop off non-perishable food items at one of the many collection sites throughout the county or contribute financially to the MontCo Anti-Hunger Network.
- Spread the word. Share posts from the Valley Forge Tourism Freedom from Hunger pages on Facebook and Instagram to amplify the campaign’s reach and encourage others to participate.
- Shop with purpose. Consider holiday gifts from participating businesses that donate a portion of proceeds, turning your seasonal shopping into meaningful support.
- Volunteer your time. Many food pantries in the MontCo Anti-Hunger Network rely on volunteers to sort donations, stock shelves, and distribute food to families in need.
For more information about the campaign, participating businesses, and donation drop-off locations, follow Valley Forge Tourism on Facebook and Instagram. Updates from Sweet Ashley’s, Cyrenity Sips, and Blossom Café on their respective social media pages will keep you informed about special promotions, limited-edition offerings, and opportunities to engage throughout the drive.
Conclusion
As Montgomery County rallies around this year’s Freedom from Hunger drive, the campaign stands as a powerful reminder of what communities can accomplish when they unite around a common cause. From the inspiring legacy of Pope Francis’s 2015 visit to the creative generosity of local businesses like Sweet Ashley’s Chocolates, Cyrenity Sips, and Blossom Café, every participant plays a vital role in fighting food insecurity across the region. With a goal of 250,000 pounds of food and the spirit of America 250 inspiring new heights of giving, this 12th annual drive represents both a celebration of community and a meaningful step toward ensuring no neighbor goes hungry. Whether you contribute a can of food, a corporate gift box, a glass of wine, or simply share the campaign with your network, your support matters. Together, Montgomery County proves that the freedom to thrive begins with the fundamental freedom from hunger.