People turned away from Leechburg food distribution because delivery truck a no-show

More than 50 people who lined up Saturday to receive free food in Leechburg went home empty-handed.

A drive-thru food distribution, sponsored by Kiski Valley Community Church in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farmers to Families Food Box program and the nonprofit Convoy of Hope, was canceled this weekend because a delivery truck never arrived with the expected 1,300 food boxes.

The Rev. Todd Pugh, pastor of Kiski Valley Community Church, described the situation as frustrating and said he and more than 30 church volunteers had to turn away people all morning. Signs also were posted along Canal and First streets to notify people.

“One lady told me she drove 20 miles for food,” Pugh said. “It was terrible, but most people were very gracious.”

Dustin Widdoss, client solutions manager for Elite Transit Solutions, said, “Unfortunately, weather events across the country last week created vehicle and road restrictions that resulted in a shortage of carriers, but shipments will resume this week.”

“We look forward to helping to deliver more food for families in need, especially in the Pittsburgh area, where we are headquartered,” Widdoss said.

Pugh said he called to confirm the truck delivery Friday and an employee with Elite Transit Solutions confirmed the company was scheduled to deliver a shipment of 1,300 food boxes Saturday morning.

Pugh said he called Elite on Saturday and was told no truck deliveries were scheduled for Leechburg that day.

The truck usually arrives early, and Pugh said he knew there was a problem when the truck had not arrived by about 8:30 a.m.

Previous distributions saw an overwhelming response, with all food boxes being distributed in a few hours and so many vehicles lined up on First Street a traffic jam required a response from local authorities.

“We were heartbroken to see people in such need and then have to turn them away. It was disappointing,” Pugh said.

The final food giveaway is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday at the Leechburg Fire Hall lot at 268 Canal St.

There are no eligibility requirements. Anyone can drive up to receive a box of perishable food items containing milk, cheese, meat, fruit and veggies.

Pugh urged people to check the church’s Facebook page or call the church at 724-845-9405 before departing for the final food giveaway.

“We don’t want people coming out early or for nothing,” Pugh said.