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SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — Two longtime nonprofit organizations are coming together to better meet the growing needs of local families.

Wednesday, the Catherine McAuley Center and Friends of the Poor announced they are merging into one charity organization.

Meghan Loftus, President & CEO of Friends of the Poor and Catherine McAuley Center, says this initiative was made as more families face housing insecurity and food shortages in Lackawanna County.

Loftus emphasizes that the partnership was a strategic decision aimed at helping both organizations grow and thrive in their mission to serve the community.

“We realized that as two different faith-based organizations, we shared the same values. We had very similar missions. We had the same long-term goals and very complementary services. And so, what better way to expand what you’re doing in the community than to find somebody who you partner with so naturally,” said Loftus.

Along with the merger, organizers also shared plans for the 49th Annual Thanksgiving Community Program, which will once again provide meals, prayer, and food baskets for local families.