A nonprofit that recently won a contest chose to donate its winnings to a local senior high-rise.

Behavioral Health Associates garnered the nonprofit of the month for April from Verona Pizza & Fiesta Fusion in Lehighton, which then gifted the agency 25 plain cheese pizzas as part of its April Free Pizza Giveaway.

To help choose the winners, followers were asked to like the photo of the nonprofit that was listed on Verona’s Facebook page, and the organization with the most likes won.

In turn, Behavioral Health Associates decided to pay it forward and donated the pizzas to the Lehighton Elderly Apartments.

Jordan Kuhns, director of communications at Behavioral Health Associates, said that Verona’s gave away the pizzas to a local nonprofit making a positive impact in the community

“As an organization, we give back where we can,” Kuhns said. “This is a great way to do that.”

Kuhns added that BHA was honored to win the nonprofit of the month from Verona’s.

Kuhns, whose first job out of high school was as a dishwasher at a nursing home in Harleysville, has always had a special place in his heart for senior citizens.

“I always liked to make things a little better for them, and this is all we could ask,” he said. “The best part is seeing the smile on their faces.”

Kuhns said their reactions once the pizzas were delivered were priceless.

“There’s nothing better than just giving to people who deserve it,” he said. “It’s just really trying to get to know them, and to meet them has been so rewarding.”

Lisa Marouchoc, social service coordinator for Better Tomorrows, said it was a pleasant surprise.

“We don’t get too many donations in this area,” Marouchoc said. “All the tenants enjoy this.”

Gail Hein, who lives at the Lehighton Elderly Apartments, expressed her gratitude.

“It was a very nice time had by all,” Hein said. “Good food, very kind.”

Sandy Molenaar said they enjoy the Memorial Day festivities at the Lehighton Elderly Apartments each year.

Frank Molenaar Sr. added, “It’s just a wonderful thing they do for us.”