Spreading holiday cheer in Pittsburgh, one meal at a time

By Chad Previch, Senior Communications Manager

Hundreds of Pittsburgh-area neighbors received holiday support as Norfolk Southern partnered with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank for a festive giveaway event. On Dec. 6 volunteers distributed pre-packaged meal kits and winter essentials, helping families and individuals during a year when the Food Bank reports higher demand for assistance across the region.

Those on hand enjoyed snacks, holiday music, and a children’s ornament-decorating station, creating moments of joy alongside meaningful support.

Why it matters

• The Food Bank is seeing greater need this season, and a 5 million meal increase in distributions between fiscal year 2024 and 2025, highlighting the importance of community partnerships.
• Norfolk Southern has contributed $70,000 in support to the Food Bank in 2025, including a recent $30,000 holiday donation and a $40,000 Thriving Communities grant.
• The giveaway reflects a shared commitment to compassion, service, and strengthening local communities.

Key details: The giveaway took place at the Food Bank’s parking lot in Duquesne, where volunteers:

• Distributed meal kits and winter essentials, including hats, gloves, and blankets
• Hosted an ornament-decorating activity for children
• Displayed the decorated ornaments on a Christmas tree donated by Norfolk Southern, now showcased at the Food Bank throughout the holiday season

What they’re saying

“Supporting families during the holidays is about more than a meal, it’s about showing up for our neighbors with care and connection. We’re grateful for our partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the opportunity to serve together.” — Kristin Wong, Director NS Foundation and Community Impact

"We are deeply grateful to everyone at Norfolk Southern for the extraordinary generosity and kindness shown as hosts of ‘Delivering for the Holidays’ at Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. They brought the spirit of the season to so many of our neighbors struggling with food insecurity, and this event is a powerful testament to their commitment to building communities where everyone has the food and resources they need to thrive. Their continued partnership fuels hope and makes a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve." — Lisa Scales, President & CEO, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank

Learn more about how Norfolk Southern partners with organizations across its network to support food security and community resilience here.

Chad Previch leads external communications for Norfolk Southern in the areas of Sustainability, Community Impact and Technology. He also manages messaging related to the company’s Government Relations and Investor Relations priorities. He joined NS in 2025, bringing nearly 20 years of PR and corporate communications experience.