The milestone event marking 40 years of service to the Lehigh Valley community underscores the region’s ongoing issues with food insecurity.
New Bethany Inc., a local nonprofit that provides food access, housing and social services to those experiencing poverty, hunger and homelessness, will hold its 34th annual Souper Day on Friday, September 12, at 11 a.m. at ArtsQuest. At this year’s event, New Bethany will celebrate 40 years of service to the Lehigh Valley.
“We are thrilled to celebrate our 40th anniversary alongside this year’s Souper Day, an event that’s been at the heart of our mission for decades,” said New Bethany’s Executive Director Marc Rittle. “While food insecurity remains a pressing issue affecting over 80,000 Lehigh Valley residents, our continued dedication to providing resources and solutions has never been stronger. We are excited about the opportunities ahead to enhance our services. With the continued support of our partners, donors and volunteers, we are confident that together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors in need.”
New Bethany has worked relentlessly to help neighbors in the Lehigh Valley for four decades, and the funds raised through Souper Day will continue to support these vital efforts, ensuring New Bethany can expand its services and deepen its impact in the community.
The annual event brings together community leaders, donors, partners and neighbors, allowing organizations and individuals to deepen their understanding of the issues facing the community and the collective power community members have to create lasting change. Kelly A. Chando, CFRE, director of development at St. Luke’s University Health Network, will return to serve as the event’s emcee for the third year.
This year’s Souper Day will explore the root causes of food insecurity and discuss practical solutions for creating equitable access to fresh, nutritious food for all community members. Attendees will hear from a panel of local leaders and advocates working on the front lines of the issue, discussing food insecurity.
The panel discussion, moderated by Rittle, will feature:
Dr. Rajika Reed, New Bethany board member, vice president of community health at St. Luke’s University Health Network
Dr. Reed has worked in the field of public health for over 25 years. She is published and has presented her work both regionally, locally, and nationally. In addition to serving on New Bethany’s Board of Directors, Dr. Reed sits on the board for the Hispanic Center of the Lehigh Valley and the City of Allentown Board of Health.
Kristen Wenrich, director of health for the City of Bethlehem
Wenrich has dedicated over 25 years to advancing public health, bringing expertise, innovation
and leadership to her field. Since she was appointed the director of health for Bethlehem in 2023, Wenrich has been instrumental in shaping health policies, addressing emerging public health challenges, and fostering community partnerships to improve the health and well-being of Bethlehem residents.
Jeff Frank, farmer, owner at Liberty Gardens in Coopersburg
Frank has been farming alongside his wife, Kristin Illick, since 1999. Over the years, he has worked extensively to promote sustainable farming practices, support new farmers, and advocate for local food systems and environmental justice. His passion for agriculture and community development continues to drive his work in the Lehigh Valley.
Brandy Garofalo, New Bethany’s food access director
Garofalo has served the South Side Bethlehem community for 23 years. Raised in the neighborhood, her deep-rooted connection to the area fuels her passion for providing essential services to her neighbors. Garofalo’s longstanding commitment and firsthand understanding of the community’s challenges make her a vital voice in discussions about local hunger and poverty.
Early sponsors include Air Products, Buckeye Partners, Crayola, Just Born, and Social T Marketing & PR. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available to help New Bethany build a community of hope for those in need.
Registration is required by August 30. For more information, sponsor opportunities and event registration, please visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/I2B/.
