As we close the doors on 2025, Feeding the Spirit reflects on a year defined by both immense community need and the extraordinary generosity of Westmoreland County. Our mission has always been two-fold: to nourish the immediate needs of our neighbors while providing the transitional support necessary to move from crisis to stability.

In 2025, that mission was put to the test. From a staggering rise in food insecurity to the evolving landscape of local housing, our organization remained a steadfast safety net for those who might otherwise slip through the cracks.

Nourishing the Community: A Milestone Year for Meals

Hunger does not wait, and in 2025, the demand for nourishment reached unprecedented heights. We are proud—and humbled—to report that we served 13,955 meals this year alone.

This represents a massive growth of 4,000 more meals annually than in 2024. The surge was particularly visible in the final months; our fourth quarter saw an increase of 1,377 meals compared to the previous year. To date, Feeding the Spirit has served a lifetime total of 103,087 meals since our inception—a testament to the enduring power of a hot meal and a kind word.

Housing & Stability: Strategic Support in a Changing Climate

Our commitment to keeping our neighbors sheltered remained a top priority, though our tactics shifted to meet the current economic reality.

• Homeless Placement: We provided 967 nights of shelter for 828 individuals, investing $56,982 into emergency placement. While the number of individuals remained steady, we observed a significant trend: stays are becoming longer as affordable permanent housing becomes increasingly difficult to secure.

• Rent Assistance: In a strategic move to maximize our impact, we assisted 514 families with a total of $90,910. By “capping” individual assistance at $100–$200, we were able to stretch our donor dollars further and encourage a “partnership model,” where we work alongside other local agencies to solve housing crises collectively.

Crisis Management: The “Misc.” That Matters

At Feeding the Spirit, we know that poverty isn’t just about big bills; it’s about the small hurdles that can derail a life. Our 2025 “Miscellaneous” support was a vital lifeline for hundreds:

From providing a $230 mattress for a wheelchair-bound individual to helping a family with $314 in funeral expenses, we believe in treating every person with the unconditional acceptance and respect they deserve.

Looking Forward

Feeding the Spirit remains a grassroots, donor-funded organization. We receive no government funding, meaning every meal served and every utility bill paid is a direct result of your compassion.

As we enter 2026, we remain dedicated to fostering an environment of hope. Whether it is a bus ticket to reunite a family or the $100 day care fee that allows a mother to keep her job, we are here to bridge the gap.

Thank you, Westmoreland County, for helping us feed the spirit of our community.