Another Successful Food Drive from the Q+ Community

By Bobbie Fenno

The Erie Queer Community came together once again on Friday, May 9, for a successful food drive that highlighted the strength, compassion, and generosity of our local community. Held at Central Outreach Wellness Center (3104 State St, Erie PA), the event brought together volunteers, donors, and community organizations to collect non-perishable food for families across the region. A total of 537 pounds and $40 was collected for Second Harvest Food Bank of NW PA.

Throughout the day, community members stopped by with bags and boxes of food donations, creating a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere. Volunteers greeted visitors, sorted donations, and engaged in conversation. It may seem like a simple food drive, but it becomes much more than that. It's a meaningful gathering of community members united by a common goal: helping others.

All collected donations will be distributed through Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, ensuring the food reaches families in need throughout our area.

The drive was made possible through the collaboration of many LGBTQ+ and allied organizations that came together to support the effort. Participating groups included Aging With Pride, Ascend Climbing/Queer Scouts, Bears Do Dinner, Central Outreach Wellness Center of Erie, Compton's Table, Erie Gay News, Family Services of NW PA, Free Mom Hugs of NW PA, G2H2, Journey: Healing Together, LBT Women, The LGBT Fund of The Erie Community Foundation, NW PA Pride Alliance, PACA, TransFamily of NW PA, Werner Books & Coffee, Whee! Design, and The Zone. Each organization contributed its time, energy, and community spirit to help make the event a success.

This food drive follows the community's earlier Coat & Boot Drive and continues a growing effort to provide direct support where it is needed most. Efforts like these reflect the spirit of mutual aid that has long been a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ communities - neighbors supporting neighbors and ensuring no one is left behind.

Organizers extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word. When the community comes together like this, the impact reaches far beyond a single event.

About the Author

Bobbie Fenno Bobbie Fenno (She/Her) joined as a contributing editor in 2025, but has been involved with Erie Gay News as a folding volunteer previously. She graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor's degree in Business, a certificate in Project Management, and an Associate's in Information Technology. Bobbie is also an active member of the LBT Women of Erie group and was also a board member for the NWPA Pride Alliance for four years (2021-2024).

Photos

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