How Local Businesses Give Back to the Community: Supporting Charities and Causes Close to Home

One of the things I love most about our local businesses is the heart they put into everything they do. It’s not just about offering products or services; it’s about making a lasting impact on the community. Here in the heart of South Central PA, many small businesses are deeply involved in supporting local charities and causes, proving that when you shop locally, you're not only supporting a business—you’re also supporting your neighbors, your community, and your values.

A recent visit to The Fresh Market at Hershey Town Square—located behind Chocolate Avenue in the old post office building—made me realize just how much local businesses are doing for others. I learned that all the fresh, leftover produce and breads from the market’s vendors is donated to Cocoa Packs, a local organization that helps provide food to schoolchildren in need. What a powerful example of how businesses can work together to make a tangible difference in the lives of families right here in our community!

Beyond food donations, many small businesses contribute in other meaningful ways. For example, Patrick Lewis, the owner of Klick Lewis Chevrolet, and his mother have long supported Palmyra’s Caring Cupboard, a vital food outreach program. Their commitment to the cause shows how business owners can play an essential role in local charity efforts.

From hosting fundraising events to offering discounts for nonprofit organizations, small businesses in our area are constantly finding ways to give back. Whether it’s donating gift certificates for silent auctions benefiting schools, shelters, or animal rescues, or collecting clothing and essentials for local charities, the support is truly overwhelming. What’s even more remarkable is how often these initiatives are driven by business owners, employees, and customers—creating a ripple effect of goodwill that spreads throughout the community.

When you shop locally, you're not just purchasing a product; you're contributing to these essential community efforts in ways that matter. Your purchases help fund scholarships, provide food for families in need, support animal shelters, and even fund new programs at youth centers. Each time you choose to spend your money with a locally owned business, you're helping build a stronger, more connected community.

So, the next time you visit a local store or restaurant, remember: your purchase is doing more than just supporting a small business—it’s directly supporting the causes that matter most to all of us. Let’s continue to shop locally and keep giving back to the community we love.