One of DLFF’s newest alumni, Matthew Coppola, has taken his last few weeks before going off to college to organize a food drive for Family Service. Matthew and his family began their drive with creating an Amazon wishlist, full of different food, hygiene, and household items. Matthew and his family then posted their wishlist to local Facebook pages in the Langhorne/Levittown area.
Matthew says he knew his community would donate to their wishlist, but he and his family were shocked to see just how many people would do so. On August 1 (in 100 degree weather), Matthew and his family headed over to the Family Service Emergency Shelter with two cars filled to the ceiling with different items donated by the community.
It took the help of two Family Service staff, Matthew, and his parents to unload all of the donated items into the building. The group stood in the doorway taking in the moment, each of them grinning ear to ear. The donations completely covered the entire room.
Matthew is no stranger to serving his community and giving back to those in need. He often volunteered for Family Service throughout his time as a DLFF scholar at Conwell-Egan Catholic High School, working very closely with Executive Director Sue Dilisio. Matthew helped on numerous occasions with food drives, tending to the Hope and Healing garden, and also organizing the emergency shelter office and pantry.
“It was no surprise when Matt asked me about holding a food drive on his own prior to leaving for college,” said Mrs. DiLisio. “This is the second time that he has taken the initiative to lead a food and supply drive which will help restock the shelter’s pantry of much needed items. Matt has always been willing to go above what was expected regarding his support of the shelter through many hours of DLFF organizational projects both during the school year and during summer vacations.”
This fall, Matthew will be embarking on a new chapter in his life, starting college at Midway University in Kentucky. He plans to major in sports management, and will continue his passion for bowling as part of the Midway bowling team. Matthew will continue to soar as an eagle, as Midway University has the same mascot of CEC.
We are so proud of Matthew and his commitment to serving his community. We know he will bring immense joy and dedication to his new home for the next four years at Midway. Good luck, Matthew and keep up the great work!
