Our Commitment to the Community
Welcome to Hometown Hearts
Who We Are
Hometown Hearts is a nonprofit charitable organization founded by Amy Yocum and Michele Rupert, who served as directors of the Soup Kitchen for seven years. As the Soup Kitchen’s ministry continued to grow and respond to increasing community needs, the program expanded beyond its original scope and became its own entity. Hometown Hearts found a welcoming and accommodating space at St. James Lutheran Church, located at 525 Mifflin Street in downtown Huntingdon, to better serve this growing demand.
Hometown Hearts participates in the Fresh Express food program on the third Saturday of every month, year-round. Fresh Express is a monthly food giveaway for individuals and families who meet income guideline requirements; however, proof of income is never required to participate. Each month, several thousand pounds of food are delivered from the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in Harrisburg.
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While there is always a wide variety of food available, the specific items are not known until the refrigerated food truck arrives. Past distributions have included soups, cereals, juices, milk, eggs, cheeses, meats, pastas, stews, fresh fruits and vegetables, snack items, and other grocery essentials. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and food is distributed until 12:00 p.m.
A free community meal is offered every Thursday evening beginning at 5:30 p.m. and is open to everyone, regardless of income. This meal is intended to provide a welcoming and supportive opportunity for individuals and families to enjoy a hot meal, whether they are facing food insecurity, short on time, or simply in need of a shared community resource.
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Meals are currently offered as takeout only and include a full dinner complete with fruit, salad, and dessert. Each guest also receives a “goodie bag” filled with weekly donations from local Sheetz stores and Walmart. Meals may be picked up until 7:00 p.m.
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The weekly community meals are made possible through the support of ten local churches and the Huntingdon Rotary Club, whose volunteers are scheduled throughout the year to help prepare and serve meals for the community.
Hometown Hearts’ programs are made possible through the generous support of local churches, community organizations, and volunteers who give their time and resources throughout the year. These partnerships allow Hometown Hearts to consistently meet the needs of individuals and families in Huntingdon and the surrounding areas.
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Each week, volunteers from participating churches and community groups assist with meal preparation, food distribution, and on-site support to ensure that every guest is welcomed with dignity and care. Additional support is provided through local business donations and community sponsors who help supply food, materials, and essential resources.
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By working together, Hometown Hearts is able to strengthen community connections, reduce food insecurity, and provide reliable assistance to those who need it most.
Hometown Hearts is able to serve the community consistently because of the financial support provided by individuals, businesses, and community partners. Monetary donations allow the organization to purchase food, supplies, and essential materials, cover operational costs, and respond quickly when unexpected needs arise.
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While volunteer support is always appreciated, financial contributions have the greatest impact on sustaining weekly meals, monthly food distributions, and emergency assistance efforts. Donations ensure that Hometown Hearts can continue serving individuals and families with dignity, reliability, and care throughout the year.
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Every contribution, regardless of size, directly supports the mission of meeting basic needs in the Huntingdon community and surrounding areas.
Our Commitment to the Community
Hometown Hearts exists to meet people where they are and provide reliable, compassionate support without barriers or judgment. Through consistent programming, strong community partnerships, and responsible stewardship of resources, the organization remains focused on addressing real needs in practical ways.
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Serving the Huntingdon community is not about recognition or scale — it is about showing up, week after week, and ensuring that individuals and families can count on support when they need it most.