Philanthropist Hands Out $100 Bills At Food Giveaway In Levittown

LEVITTOWN, PA — The holidays are going to be a little brighter for 50 families who attended the weekly distribution at the Emergency Relief Agency's food pantry in Levittown on Wednesday.

Families were not only provided with a variety of food items including milk, eggs, fresh produce, canned goods, breads, and other items to fill their cupboard, they received a little extra cheer from local philanthropist, Gene Epstein.

Gene brought Santa with him to convey some holiday cheer to families struggling this holiday season. Each car was greeted by Gene and Santa who presented each with a $100 bill.

The recipients were without words as they accepted the generous gift, said Erin Lukoss, the executive director of the Bucks County Opportunity Council.

One woman got out of her car and cried in disbelief that someone would be so kind during these challenging times, said Lukoss.

"She asked, 'Who did this come from?' When she was told it was Gene, she sat silent for a second and then thanked him herself before posing for a photo. She wiped away tears and was heard saying, 'I just can’t believe this!'"

Gene gave out a little more than $5000 on Wednesday just about two weeks after he gave out close to $50,000 at a weekly Fresh Connect food distribution in nearby Bristol Township.

"In order to be able to do this at Fresh Connect and the Emergency Relief Association all it meant was parting with one of my old collector cars," said Gene. "I certainly hope that things get better for everyone as soon as possible before I run out of my old classic automobiles."

This was the third time Gene handed out much needed help to those facing food insecurities at the ERA Food Pantry on Woodbourne Road.

"It felt great to see so many volunteers packaging the food orders for their 'guests'. In the past our family spearheaded large turkey giveaways and food for those that were on welfare, Social Security, supplemental income, or just out of work. We did this for 28 years," he said.

"Handing out the cash, I find is much more efficient since the people that are the recipients know exactly what they need. All the 'guests' have been previously vetted to show that they are deserving of our assistance.

"This is more valuable than me having another old car," he said. "Even Santa Claus (Bill) is ready to volunteer on a moment's notice, however his elves are pretty slow getting ready."