Delmont police will host collection drive to benefit Westmoreland Food Bank

The Westmoreland Food Bank was still feeling pressure from food insecurity during the covid pandemic when the federal government shutdown this fall created additional strain.

“We didn’t feel like we were fully dug out yet from the pandemic, let alone ready to start handling another crisis,” said food bank Executive Director Jennifer Miller. “People who are showing up to volunteer and giving from their heart means more than ever.”

Delmont Police Chief T.J. Klobucar felt his department had a duty to show up, and will host a collection drive Sunday for the food bank at the Delmont Borough garage on Bierer Street.

“In 2020, right around this same time of year with covid going on and the holidays coming up, we wanted to do our part and did one of these drives,” Klobucar said. “This year, I see how busy the food pantry is at the Wigfield Parklet, and we talked about hosting another drive.”

Borough resident Ed Washburn started the parklet food pantry about five years ago.

“I’ve been refilling it about three times per week,” Washburn said. “In 2025 we’ve seen a lot more usage, especially the past couple months.”

Donors can bring nonperishable food items to drop off at the pantry, and Washburn said he’s begun accepting gently used coats as well, giving out 140 last year and 70 this year.

Klobucar, who lives in Penn Township, said he considers Delmont residents his second family.

“Delmont has always been really good to me,” he said. “We’ll be hosting the food drive and the Salvation Army Canteen will be there selling hot dogs and refreshments.”

Only nonperishable food items will be accepted. The greatest need is for canned meats/fish, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetables, macaroni and cheese and boxed meals or side dishes.

“Gina Colosimo, our food drive and volunteer manager, has had a great connection with the Delmont police over the years,” Miller said. “And with them right in our backyard, they thought it was a great fit to help out the community.”

The food bank also just began site prep work last week on a federally funded expansion that will upgrade the its refrigeration capacity, create a larger workspace for volunteers and add an on-site food pantry.

“With everything else going on, technically it couldn’t have started at a worse time,” Miller said with a laugh. “But we didn’t want to wait and we’re very glad it’s getting started.”

In addition to the Sunday food drive, police will also be accepting donations at the borough’s Light Up Delmont event Saturday, 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Wigfield park at 27 Greensburg St.

For more information about donating, volunteering or receiving food assistance, see WestmorelandFoodBank.org or call 724-468-8660.