Greensburg Non-Profit Focuses on Fundraising to Meet Essential Needs
Michelle Havrilesko, Board Member
havomt@gmail.com
724.984.4281
GREENSBURG, PA, July 1, 2025 (PittsburghNewsWire.com) — Deb Thackrah, a dedicated runner, discovered an overlooked segment of the Greensburg community when she altered her usual running route. As she took a different trail, she encountered people sleeping outdoors sheltered only by blankets or cardboard. This scene inspired her to establish Feeding the Spirit, a non-profit organization based in Greensburg, in 2011. Feeding the Spirit hosted its inaugural free dinner at Otterbein United Methodist Church with 35 people in attendance. Since then, the organization has expanded its efforts to address housing scarcity and other critical needs. In 2024, Feeding the Spirit provided 865 nights of emergency housing, funded more than $138,000 in rent payments, and distributed 10,636 hot meals. The organization is set to serve its 100,000th meal this year.
Feeding the Spirit has remained committed to helping community members overcome poverty, homelessness, and hunger for the past 14 years. “We’re dedicated to making a significant difference in the lives of Westmoreland County residents in need,” Thackrah said. “Resource cuts and uncertainty have increased demand for our services, so fundraising is critically important to our mission.” Besides grants, direct donations, and meal sponsorships, Feeding the Spirit hosts an annual fundraiser to help sustain its services.
Feeding the Spirit’s fall fundraiser, Tailgate & Celebrate, is scheduled for Saturday, September 13 at Stratigos Banquet Centre, North Huntingdon, from 4 pm to 7 pm. The football-themed event will include complimentary game day appetizers, a cash bar, live music, and basket and 50/50 raffles. It will also feature two popular special raffle collections: “Taste of Westmoreland” restaurant gift cards and Pennsylvania Lottery scratchers. Advance tickets can be purchased online for $35 online or $40 at the door.
“We’re grateful for the network of generous sponsors and donors, fundraiser participants, and volunteers who make Feeding the Spirit’s work possible,” noted Thackrah. “We’re able to achieve our goals because of continuing support from big-hearted people and organizations throughout Westmoreland County.” She extended special thanks to long-time partner and lead Tailgate & Celebrate sponsor, The Nutrition Group
Feeding the Spirit is dedicated to nourishing the bodies, minds, and spirits of Westmoreland County residents in need. It focuses on providing crisis management and transitional resources with an emphasis on fostering hope and dignity. Feeding the Spirit was honored to be named 2022 Non-Profit of the Year by the Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce. It is a partner member of the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania and has received a platinum designation from GuideStar for program and financial accountability.
For more information, please visit www.feedspirit.org or follow Feeding the Spirit on Facebook.
