Chronic Absenteeism (missing 2 days of school a month or 18 days total) is a serious problem in Allentown, affecting nearly 1 in 4 students. Students who miss too many classroom days fall so far behind they struggle to catch up and are the most likely to drop out.

We support the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley's Challenge 5 program, which partners with other organizations and agencies in the region to urge students and their caregivers to “Strive for Less than Five” school-day absences per year. 

Vince Sr. was the son of Italian immigrants.  As a first-generation American growing up in a home where little English was spoken, he faced the kinds of struggles many children still face today in our community.  Among the family heirlooms we cherish is his perfect attendance certificate from the ASD in 1937.  We can only imagine how hard-won an accomplishment that was in those days, and are keenly aware that transience and other issues far beyond any student's control push proper attendance even further from the grasp of many families.  

​As people in the food business, we're also convinced that the research is right: kids can't learn if they're hungry.  We know that our communities can't truly succeed if students continue to struggle.  These issues go hand in hand. Vince believed that education was key to success, and we believe every child has a right to a good education.  For these reasons and many more, we'll be continuing to partner with United Way to help resource and equip Allentown students for success. Learn more about the program and how you can help here.