Friends of the Poor

Serving our community for over 36 years!

Friends-of-poor-logo.jpgFriends of the Poor (FOTP) is a Scranton-based non-profit entity that provides emergency assistance for those in-need. The organization's mission is to enhance the quality of life for all who live in poverty, joining in friendship with those who have the desire to give and assist. FOTP was founded in 1986 by the late Sister Adrian Barrett, IHM, and is sponsored by the Congregation of the Sisters and Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The primary office is located in Marywood's Tony Domiano Center.

FOTP operates eight food pantries, two full-time and six part-time. Annually, these pantries serve 14,000 individuals unduplicated, and more than 40,000 duplicated. In addition, the agency’s Family to Family program holds three large-scale food distributions around major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. These giveaways serve 15,000, 5,000, and 5,000 individuals respectively. FOTP provides emergency services in the form of food, clothing, household items, furniture, assistance with rent/utilities, and transportation to medical appointments for Carbondale residents. Seasonal dinners for adults and seniors, programs and field trips for children and families, and Clothes Line for Men are also offered.