Morning Call Kicks Off 26th Be an Angel Campaign to Help Neighbors

The Morning Call has officially launched its 26th annual Be an Angel campaign, aiming to support local nonprofits amid increasing economic challenges. This year, many individuals and families in the Lehigh Valley are facing heightened financial strain, making the need for community support more critical than ever.

As inflation continues to affect daily living expenses, numerous organizations that provide essential services are also feeling the pressure. According to local nonprofits, rising costs and cuts in government funding have made it increasingly difficult to meet the needs of those they serve. Even as the holiday season approaches—a time often associated with generosity—many are struggling to make ends meet.

The Be an Angel campaign invites community members to contribute to a wish list compiled from local nonprofits. This initiative aims to fulfill specific needs that can help improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and families. For those interested in donating, the campaign offers a variety of options, from monetary contributions to fulfilling specific item requests. The deadline for donations has been extended to January 1, 2026, allowing for ample time to participate.

Each year, the campaign gathers three wishes from various organizations, focusing on the most pressing needs. This year’s list includes essentials such as laundry detergent, personal care items, and gift cards for food purchases. Local food pantries, including the Northern Lehigh Food Pantry, have expressed particular urgency for these supplies.

Amarelis Rodriguez, a representative from the Lehigh Conference of Churches, emphasized the importance of donations: “So many families and individuals are feeling the impact of rising costs and limited resources. Donations give us the opportunity to meet people where they are, offering hope, help, and a reminder that they’re not alone.” The organization serves those without stable housing and is seeking warm clothing, blankets, and camping supplies.

The campaign has a strong track record of community support, having raised nearly $6.2 million over its 25 years. Last year alone, donations surpassed $275,400 in goods. These figures do not account for the invaluable contributions of volunteers, who play a crucial role in supporting local initiatives.

The wish list reflects tangible needs that can significantly impact individuals and families. For instance, New Bethany in Bethlehem is seeking winter camping supplies and heavy blankets, while Helping Hands Ministry in Emerald requests specific equipment to enhance its food assistance services.

Many organizations are also looking for volunteer support. The Northampton County 4-H Center is among those seeking individuals with carpentry and painting skills to assist with ongoing projects. Such contributions can help organizations stretch their resources further, ensuring that they can assist as many people as possible.

Part of the campaign’s charm lies in its encouragement for community members to find creative ways to give back. Individuals can contribute gently used items, such as bicycles for Community Bikeworks or musical instruments for the Community Music School. These organizations aim to provide opportunities for at-risk youth, helping them learn valuable skills while fostering a sense of belonging.

The Be an Angel campaign embodies a collaborative spirit, uniting the community to support those in need. With its continued success over the years, the initiative serves as a reminder of the power of generosity and the difference individuals can make in the lives of their neighbors.

As the holiday season approaches, the opportunity to earn “angel wings” awaits those willing to help. Whether through monetary donations, fulfilling specific wishes, or volunteering time, every contribution can create a ripple effect of kindness throughout the community.