On Nov. 23, Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health launched a self-serve food pantry to support employees and their families who may be facing food insecurity — a growing challenge for some families in the face of the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The LG Pantry, open three days a week at designated LG Health locations, provides a pre-packed bag of shelf-stable food items to employees in need. Each bag is filled with a day’s worth of food (breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack) for approximately four people.
"As we continue to face the uncertainties that the COVID-19 pandemic brings, it's important to my fellow leaders and me that our LG Health employees feel supported at work and at home," said Jan L. Bergen, president and chief executive officer, LG Health.
Collection of food items donated by fellow LG Health leaders and employees began in mid-November, with drop-off crates placed in four LG Health locations. The bags of food are assembled by employees from the Human Resources Department. Donations of grocery store gift cards are also welcome and will be used to stock the pantry.
Employees experiencing a need can conveniently and discreetly stop by one of three LG Pantry locations to pick up a bag.
"Each day, we strive to demonstrate our commitment to our patients, community and team members. The addition of the LG Pantry brings together our personal investment as colleagues and community members, while answering the potential need employees may be facing," Bergen said.
Additional information about the LG Pantry, including hours, locations, pick-up process and a shopping list of preferred items can be found on StarNet or by contacting Samantha O'Hara, supervisor, Engagement & Recognition.
Non-perishable food items and grocery gift cards can be dropped off at:
- Lancaster General Hospital - Employee Service Center (across pedestrian bridge)
- Suburban Pavilion - Wellness Center (2nd Floor)
- Women & Babies Hospital - Main Employee Entrance
- BURLE - Human Resources (1st Floor Lobby)