A Palmerton church has shared a portion of proceeds raised with several community organizations.

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Palmerton, recently donated half of the proceeds raised from its stand at last month’s Palmerton Community Festival.

The church distributed $1,751 to both the Palmerton Food Pantry and the Carbon County Animal Shelter.

The Rev. Ken Melber said he continues to be inspired by not only his congregation, but by the surrounding community.

“It amazes me even for a small congregation, how blessed they’ve been by their local community,” Melber said. “And how they insist on blessing the community back in ways that it is able to do so.”

Susie Arner, co-director of the Palmerton Food Pantry, expressed her appreciation on behalf of the Christian Action Council of Palmerton Area Churches.

“We are extremely appreciative, and hope that the community realizes the impact that they have on the food pantry,” Arner said. “Many thanks to the church for sharing their festival proceeds with those in need in the community.”

Arner, who also serves as president/co-chair of the Palmerton Community Festival, said she believes it’s a win-win situation.

“The Palmerton Community Festival is pleased to hear that our participating organizations are sharing their proceeds with the community,” Arner said. “We are so pleased that everyone is able to succeed and benefit from everyone’s generosity.”

Tom Connors, director of the Carbon County Animal Shelter, said they “are so blessed that the members of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church picked us as a group to give to.

“We appreciate all who support our shelter, and consider them a member of our team helping the pups in need of Carbon County,” Connors said. “This gift will go a long way in helping so many pups.”