Northampton Township Police Department officers deliver donations to JFM Food Pantry at Bethanna.
by June Portnoy
Northampton Township Police Department held their annual Northampton Township Thanksgiving Food Drive on November 9 outside the Giant in Richboro. Thanks to the generosity of the township’s residents and local businesses, the police department collected 2,534 pounds of donated non-perishable food, five turkeys, and $3,500 in Giant gift cards.
Several Northampton Township police officers delivered these donations to the Jesus Focus Ministry (JFM) Food Pantry at Bethanna in Southampton on November 12. The food was used to replenish the pantry’s shelves and the gift cards were used to buy frozen turkeys for the food pantry’s clients who predominantly live in Bucks County as well as Montgomery County and as far away as Philadelphia.
According to Guy Murdoch, Bethanna Maintenance Supervisor, the turkeys began being distributed at their drive-through food pantry on November 14, so families in need could enjoy a Thanksgiving Day meal, something most of them wouldn’t have been able to afford. They also had the opportunity to choose some non-perishable items that enhanced their holiday meal like gravy, yams, and stuffing.
Chief Steve LeCompte from the Northampton Township Police Department, explained that this food drive was initially established as a competition called the “Battle of the Hamptons” between Northampton and Southampton townships.” Whichever township raised the most food based on weight won bragging rights,” he described.
When the Battle of the Hamptons ended sometime around 2020, the Northampton Township Police Department’s Quality of Life Division took over the management of this annual food drive. Since then, it has evolved into a township-wide drive, emphasizing collaboration rather than rivalry.
The food drive is a culmination of contributions from individuals, businesses, and various township departments, illustrating Northampton’s collective spirit. Residents come forward with generous donations, and local businesses such as Giant actively partner with the department to support the initiative.
Reflecting on community partnerships, Chief LeCompte added, “We are happy to give back to the community. Our mission is to help anyone in need.”
For Sergeant Zach Wyant, who oversees the Quality of Life Division, the Thanksgiving Food Drive reflects the division’s mission of fostering positive community relations. “The generosity of this community is overwhelming,” Wyant noted, explaining that various local institutions, including churches, schools, and local synagogue, Ohev Shalom, make substantial contributions each year. Wyant, alongside Officers Janini and Marcus Wigler, work together running this full-time division, encouraging donations and managing logistics. This unit also oversees the drive’s promotional efforts, posting updates on social media and circulating flyers throughout the township.
Officer Patrick Jainnini, a recent addition to the food drive team, appreciates the opportunity to connect with residents and build relationships within the community. “Every year, we get a substantial amount of donations; it’s a collaborative effort on both sides,” Jainnini commented. The officers not only receive donations but also witness the entire process as the goods reach Bethanna, where volunteers unpack and organize items for distribution. Jainnini expressed gratitude for the community’s response and support, saying, “We are able to give back because the community helps us give back.”
Officer Orenda Geller, who has been helping out at this event the past few years, is pleased by all the positive feedback this food drive receives from the community. “Everyone agrees that this is a great cause and is happy that we are actively giving back to the community,” she said.
JFM Food Pantry at Bethanna, the exclusive recipient of these donations, plays a crucial role in the community, serving approximately 65 to 85 families each day at its drive-through food pantry. These donations are critical to helping families across Bucks County and beyond, many of whom face uncertain financial situations. According to Murdock, the donations from the Northampton Township Police Department’s food drive make a lasting impact, especially around the holidays.
However, these contributions go beyond a single holiday meal; helping to stock this food pantry shelves with essential items. The pantry’s daily operations would be impossible without such community support, and Murdock emphasized how donations create stability for families.
Unlike many food pantries, JFM Food Pantry at Bethanna operates five days a week, which allows families to drive through the line weekly. Murdock shared how important it is to treat each client with respect and understanding. “We never ask anyone about their income, and we don’t turn anyone away,” he said, noting that some families come from challenging circumstances, such as recent job loss or the passing of a family member. This compassionate approach, supported by the Northampton Township community, helps this food pantry remain a lifeline for many families.
Reflecting on the food drive’s growth and evolution, Lynn Tomlinson, Northampton Township’s former HR Director, remains an inspiring force behind the event. Tomlinson initially launched the Battle of the Hamptons and volunteered at Bethanna herself, building a foundation for the program’s future. Detective Ryan Jumper, who helped continue the drive after the Battle of the Hamptons concluded, played a significant role in ensuring that the food drive lived on. Wyant credits Detective Jumper for the smooth transition and for instilling the department’s commitment to community support. Today, the Quality of Life Division preserves the spirit of Tomlinson and Jumper’s contributions.
As Northampton Township geared up for Thanksgiving, the food drive served as a powerful reminder of the difference that kindness and cooperation could make. Through the collective efforts of police officers, township departments, local businesses, and residents, families in need gathered around Thanksgiving tables with nourishing food, provided by a community that cares.