In response to the federal government shutdown and the resulting reduction in SNAP food assistance, Citadel Credit Union is donating $30,000 to area food banks and launching a month-long food drive to support families and neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Throughout November, all Citadel branches, along with its headquarters and wealth management and mortgage office locations, will serve as food donation drop-off sites. Nonperishable items will be collected for distribution through local food banks and community partners.
The effort, part of Citadel’s “Our Values in Action” campaign, reflects the credit union’s deep commitment to building strength across the region. Donations collected will directly benefit local food pantries in the six counties Citadel serves: Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery, and Philadelphia.
“Citadel is rooted in the belief that when our neighbors are in need, we stand together,” said Bill Brown, Citadel’s President and CEO. “Our branches are more than financial centers; they’re part of the community. By turning every office into a food collection site, we’re making it easy for members, employees, and residents to help feed families during this challenging time.”
To maximize local impact, all donated items will be delivered to partner organizations serving each county:
- Bucks County: Warminster Food Bank
- Chester County: Chester County Food Bank (with support from Chester County United Way)
- Delaware County: Media Food Bank at First Church and Saint Mark’s UMC Food Pantry
- Lancaster County: Water Street Mission
- Montgomery County: Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities and Manna on Main Street
- Philadelphia: Share Food Program
Each participating food bank and pantry regularly updates its website with the most-needed items, ensuring donations meet the most urgent community needs.
To make participation simple and accessible, community members are encouraged to donate nonperishable food at any of Citadel’s 24 branches.
“This is community in action,” said Stephanie Nickens, Citadel’s Philanthropy and Community Engagement Program Manager. “The outpouring of support we’re already seeing from employees and members speaks volumes about who we are as a credit union. Every donation, large or small, provides crucial support to local families, ensuring they have access to food, dignity, and hope.”
This initiative is an extension of Citadel Cares, the credit union’s community giving program, which supports efforts in financial literacy, education, community and economic development, and health and wellness.
Learn more about Citadel Credit Union, one of the Greater Philadelphia area’s largest credit unions.
