Our History
The YORK BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION is the oldest charitable organization in York County. It was formed in 1863 to provide aid for widows and orphans of Civil War soldiers. The number of eligible recipients grew to include York Countians in need, and the Association began to work in quiet efficiency to address these needs. It continues to do so today. The original charter was drafted in 1874. Formal incorporation in 1893 specified as its purpose the provision of food, clothing, shoes and fuel. This purpose remains constant today; service has never stopped.
WHAT HAPPENS
In Our Process
At the York Benevolent Association, our goal is to gather, sort, and distribute nutritious food to everyone who needs it. Because well-fed communities are better for us all.
Gather
We receive donated or low-cost food from suppliers and community partners.
Sort
Our dedicated staff and volunteers sort and organize the food we receive.
Distribute
Food is then supplied and distributed to those in need throughout our community.
SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
For the Greater Good
We believe even the smallest actions can have far-reaching effects. When you choose to support The Benevolent, you create positive impacts that ripple across York County and beyond. Volunteer your time, organize a food drive, or make a monetary donation. We can’t achieve our mission without you.
Our Board of Managers
The Board of Managers has maintained a vigorous, hands-on involvement and believes that money given should be spent directly for the purpose intended — to feed and help the poor. This complete independence has been a major factor in the Association’s success.
Stephen H. Stetler | President
Kelly S. Overlander | 1st Vice President
Amy C. Brillinger | 2nd Vice President
Kerry J. Spangler | Treasurer
C. Kim Bracey | Secretary
Carleen Farabaugh | Executive Director
Donna Williams | Financial Administrator
Joel H. Cavadel
Lee E. Hankey
George Lenkner
Mark Peterman
Michael Santaniello
Samuel A. Willman
John F. Barbor | Emeritus
D. Scott Stauffer | Emeritus
Dean K. Norbeck | Emeritus
Alfred H. WaIbrecker | Emeritus
OUR CORE VALUES
The York Benevolent Association is committed to these values that guide our mission:
SERVICE
We provide food assistance without discrimination — putting the needs of our community above self, ever mindful of our calling to assist others.
COMPASSION
We treat all individuals accessing our services with the utmost care, dignity, and respect while safeguarding privacy and confidentiality.
DEDICATION
We are committed to addressing the needs of those we serve by connecting every individual facing hunger with healthy, nutritious food.
STEWARDSHIP
We exercise responsible financial stewardship of assets and resources entrusted to us, including food, funds, equipment, and time.
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating
on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.
MAILING ADDRESS
P.O. BOX 5041 • YORK, PA 17405