Celebrating 24 Million Reasons to Keep Going: MANNA’s Milestone and Our Role in Their Mission
On June 24, MANNA celebrated an extraordinary milestone: 24 million medically tailored meals served to individuals battling critical illness across Greater Philadelphia. This achievement is more than a number—it’s a testament to MANNA’s unwavering commitment to health, healing, and dignity.
At AmeriPak and Elmark Packaging, we are proud to stand behind MANNA, not only as a vendor but as a partner in their purpose-driven mission.
In 2020, MANNA transitioned to two AmeriPak TD30 tray sealers, which enabled them to shift to a more flexible, cost-effective packaging model. With these machines:
- They gained the freedom to source trays and film competitively, improving sustainability and reducing costs.
- The return on investment was realized in under 20 months, allowing more resources to go directly to meals and clients.
- With local service support just 25 miles away, their operations are backed by hands-on, responsive assistance.
- Elmark, our sister company, supplies labels and printers, helping MANNA maintain efficiency and clarity in their meal packaging process.
And our connection to MANNA extends beyond equipment. Members of our team have also volunteered onsite—prepping, plating, and sealing meals right alongside MANNA staff and other volunteers. It’s been an honor to experience firsthand the care and dedication that goes into every tray.
We were inspired to see MANNA’s CEO Sue Daugherty and PA State Representative Donna Bullock pack and deliver the 24 millionth meal—an event that symbolizes not just a milestone but a movement.
Since 1990, MANNA has expanded from a compassionate response to the HIV/AIDS crisis into a national model of evidence-based nutrition. Their work proves that food is medicine—and every sealed tray is a step toward healing.
To the volunteers, staff, and leadership at MANNA: congratulations. And thank you for letting us play a small part in your incredibly big impact.
Here’s to the next million meals—and the lives they’ll nourish.
