By Jeff Falk – TownLively.com
The Lancaster County Food Hub (LCFH) is the possessor of one fine title. But perhaps the organization should be called the Lancaster County Food, Clothing and Shelter Hub.
Despite its formal name, LCFH concerns itself with three of the five basic human needs. And because those needs in Lancaster County are great, that makes the local nonprofit’s work even more important.
“We just haven’t changed our name yet,” said Paige McFarling, who’s been LCFH’s executive director for four years. “We’re getting there. I think it’s essential that we come up with a name that shows who we are and lets people know what we do.”
From a 27,000-square-foot renovated warehouse located at 812 N. Queen St., Lancaster, LCFH provides food, clothing and shelter services for county families and individuals in need. Serving with faith and compassion, LCFH distributes its services without asking questions and with few limitations.
Clients or neighbors are not required to show identification to receive services. LCFH does ask that clients receive food no more than once a calendar month and clothing no more than once every two months.
“We envision a Lancaster County where everyone lives a life of stability and dignity,” said McFarling. “We’re hoping to build relationships. Basic human needs are what it takes for us to survive. If I’m helping someone with food and clothing, I’m freeing them up for their rent payments. Rent eats first. And if they can make their rent, maybe they can go to the doctor.”
In 2024, more than 73,000 visitors received services from LCFH, about 56,000 of whom were food recipients. Many of those LCFH neighbors earn less than 180% of the federal poverty level, and about 60% of those who visit earn too much money to qualify for federal government subsidies.
