At the regular Friday fresh produce giveaway at Bristol Township’s pavilion, the first 400 attendees each received a $100 gift from local philanthropist Gene Epstein, reports JoAnn Pileggi for FOX 29 Philadelphia.
The gift came at a critical time after SNAP benefits were reduced, with more people turning to food networks, pantries and fresh connect for additional support.
“If you cut the SNAP benefits, it’s not like the people, the families have the money to spend to purchase that food,” said Elizabeth Zbinden, of Bucks County Opportunity Council. “They’re gonna come to the charitable food network. They’re gonna come to pantries, they’re gonna come to the fresh connect.”
For decades, Epstein has given thousands of dollars in cash during the holiday season. He typically waits until closer to Christmas, but this year he brought the surprise forward to Thanksgiving.
“He has provided $40,000,” said Chief C.J.Winik of Bristol Township Police Department. “One-hundred-dollar bills put in 400 separate envelopes.”
Together with his wife, Epstein founded a Delaware Valley organization to aid families and partnered with the police department for this giveaway to foster stronger community connections.
Learn more about how philanthropist Gene Epstein provided money to individuals in need in Bristol at FOX 29 Philadelphia.
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