HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS: UPMC DONATION PROVIDES FREE MEALS TO THOUSANDS OF CENTRAL PA FAMILIES

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From left to right: Jessica Ritchie, president and chief development officer, UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, and David Gibbons, senior vice president, Health Services Division, and regional president, UPMC, present a check for $300,000 to Shila Ulrich, chief executive officer, Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, and Matt Lane, senior vice president and chief development officer, Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. 

Harrisburg, Pa. (November 20, 2025) – To support local families ahead of the holidays, UPMC in Central Pa. has donated $300,000 to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. This generous contribution will provide 1.2 million meals for thousands of families to put on their tables for Thanksgiving and other special occasions, helping to ensure their holiday season is filled with hope, joy and meaningful memories.
“We know that many patients and members of our community face food insecurity, which can harm a family’s physical and emotional health,” said David Gibbons, senior vice president, Health Services Division, and regional president, UPMC. “We hope this gift eases the burdens families in our region are facing so they can focus on spending quality time around the table with friends and family this Thanksgiving season.”
Communities across Central Pennsylvania already benefit from UPMC’s fight against food insecurities. The UPMC Pinnacle Foundation Farm to Hospital Program at UPMC Memorial combats food insecurity throughout York County by providing fresh, healthy produce to UPMC Memorial patients, staff, visitors, and the community at large.
UPMC in Central Pa. provided nearly $230 million in benefits to Central Pennsylvania communities in the past year. This latest donation to Central Pennsylvania Food Bank is an extension of UPMC’s generous support of programs and organizations that meet critical needs of Pennsylvania families.
“We thank UPMC in Central Pa. for this incredible donation,” said Shila Ulrich, CEO of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. “Donations such as this one are always important and greatly support our neighbors, but they are especially needed right now. These funds ensure families across our community have one less worry, especially this time of year. Strong partnerships like these remain critical to our mission of fighting hunger during this ongoing food insecurity crisis.”
Ulrich said many people are struggling financially, and even with the SNAP program and state programs resuming after the federal and state budgets passed recently, neighbors are still in need of food assistance. She asks the public to consider making a first-time financial contribution, or increasing their usual donation to the food bank during the holiday season.
For neighbors who need any support this holiday season, please call the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank at 877-999-5964 or email arinfo@centralpafoodbank.org. Program details can also be accessed online at https://www.centralpafoodbank.org/.
 
About UPMC
UPMC is a world-renowned, nonprofit health care provider and insurer committed to delivering exceptional, people-centered care and community services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh and affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, UPMC is shaping the future of health through clinical and technological innovation, research, and education. Dedicated to advancing the well-being of our diverse communities, we provide nearly $2 billion annually in community benefits, more than any other health system in Pennsylvania. Our 100,000 employees — including more than 5,000 physicians — care for patients across more than 40 hospitals and 800 outpatient sites in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland, as well as overseas. UPMC Insurance Services covers more than 4 million members, providing affordable, high-quality, value-based care. To learn more, visit UPMC.com.
 
About the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank
The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank (CPFB) is a nonprofit organization with a mission of fighting hunger, improving lives, and strengthening communities. It provides meals for nearly 268,000 neighbors each month, by working with nearly 1,000 partner agencies and with the critical help of volunteers who contribute over 73,000 hours annually. CPFB’s bold goal is to provide access to enough nutritious food for everyone struggling with hunger in each of the 27 central Pennsylvania counties it serves by collaborating with its network and convening and nurturing partnerships to make progress toward ending hunger.

HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS: UPMC DONATION PROVIDES FREE MEALS TO THOUSANDS OF CENTRAL PA FAMILIES

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November 29, 2025
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Christmas in Hanover Festival

Get ready for a season of holiday cheer with Christmas in Hanover! Our festive lineup includes exciting events and activities that will bring the community together to celebrate the holidays.
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Join us for the Hot Chocolate and Cookie Stroll on December 13, 2025! Stroll through our charming downtown, visit local businesses, and enjoy samples of delicious cookies and hot chocolate along the way. While you explore, enjoy festive entertainment including carolers spreading holiday cheer and a visit to Santa’s Cabin in the Square.
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January 10, 2026
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Discover the many ways to nurture your well-being during our Health and Wellness 2nd Saturday in Downtown Hanover! Explore the downtown area and visit a variety of businesses that offer a range of health and wellness opportunities. From mental health services to physical fitness, you’ll find spas, retail therapy, fitness classes, and more. It’s the perfect day to focus on self-care while supporting local businesses!
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February 14, 2026
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Valen-Tour Downtown

Celebrate love where it lives best—right here in downtown Hanover! Our February 2nd Saturday theme, Valen-Tour Downtown, is all about creating memorable moments with the ones who matter most. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a cozy lunch, or a sweet surprise, downtown Hanover is filled with ways to show your loved one just how much you care.
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March 14, 2026
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Downtown Four-Leaf Clover Scavenger Hunt

Join the Downtown Four-Leaf Clover Scavenger Hunt and explore local businesses while searching for hidden four-leaf clovers! Visit participating shops, locate their hidden clovers, and collect stamps along the way. Once you’ve collected all the clover stamps, submit your card to Main Street to be entered in a FREE drawing to win an Explore Downtown basket with goodies from our downtown businesses as a reward for your lucky hunt. It’s a fun and festive way to discover downtown and enjoy a bit of Irish charm!
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What are the top attractions to visit in Hanover?

Visitors often inquire about the Hanover Historic District, which is known for its over 2600 mid-19th to mid-20th-century buildings.

Are there guided tours available in Hanover?

In Hanover, Pennsylvania, history enthusiasts can enjoy a journey through time with visits to the Hanover Area Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s rich past; the Warehime-Myers Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century architecture; and the Neas House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Hanover, offering a glimpse into the life of the 18th-century Pennsylvania German settlers. These historical landmarks provide a captivating window into Hanover’s heritage and are a must-visit for those looking to experience the town’s historical charm.

Can visitors engage in any unique local activities?

In addition to Codorus State Park and Hickory Falls, Hanover is also known for the Snack Town Street Fair, a vibrant festival celebrating the town’s snack food heritage with craft vendors, food, and entertainment, created in partnership between the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce and Utz Brands

What historical experiences can one have in Hanover?

Hanover provides a rich historical experience with tours like the Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour and the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in nearby Gettysburg.

What is Hanover known for?

Hanover, Pennsylvania, is renowned as the Snack Food Capital of the World, home to iconic brands like Utz Quality Foods and Snyder’s of Hanover, which are part of the Campbell Snacks portfolio.                              

Where can I grab a drink?

Dolphin & Anchor Pub: Located in the heart of Hanover, they offer traditional beer styles with a twist.

Fat Bat Brewing Company: A local brewery started by a beer-loving brother and sister team, known for their craft beer selections.

Sign of the Horse Brewery: A contemporary brewery catering to craft brew enthusiasts with a range of house taps.

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Lydian Stone Brewing Company: A nano brewery offering a variety of craft beers, from the light or malty to the hoppy or stouts; and, plenty of conversation.

Where can I get a map of Hanover?

The Borough office at 33 Frederick St,‍ Hanover has everything you will need to find your way around Hanover.

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