Patricia Shepherd
Executive Director
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities Announces Patricia Shepherd as Executive Director, Signaling New Era of Growth and Community Impact

POTTSTOWN, PA, April 22, 2026 — The Board of Directors of the Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities announces the appointment of Patricia Shepherd, former Food Service Director as Executive Director, marking a step forward as the organization expands its reach, strengthens partnerships, and deepens its impact across the greater Pottstown community and Montgomery County. Shepherd has served as Interim Executive Director since November 2025.

“Patricia brings not only operational expertise but a clear vision for how we can grow our partnerships and broaden our impact,” said Board President Carla Clanagan.

Shepherd’s appointment follows her tenure as a key contributor to the organization’s food service operations and as a member of the management team. During this time, she helped lead food service and operational initiatives amongst increasing demand for services. Her leadership has already contributed to improved efficiency, expanded outreach, and stronger collaboration with local partners.

“I am honored to step into this role at such an important time for the organization and the community we serve,” said Shepherd. “Every day, we see both the challenges and the possibilities in our community. The Pottstown Cluster is uniquely positioned to bring people together to create lasting solutions. My focus is on strengthening those connections, growing our programs, and ensuring we continue to meet evolving community needs with compassion and innovation.”

For more than 50 years, the Pottstown Cluster has supported individuals and families facing food insecurity, housing instability, and other basic needs, and continues to advance their work through collaboration, strategic growth, and community-driven solutions.

In 2025, the Pottstown Cluster served 14,515 households through its Pottstown-based food pantry, distributed more than 594,812 pounds of food through pantry services, community meals, and support for smaller local food pantries across Montgomery County. In addition to these efforts, the organization also helped 70 low-income older adults remain in or transition into safe, affordable housing.

Looking ahead, the Pottstown Cluster plans to expand partnerships, strengthen programs, and increase access to essential services so more people can achieve stability and thrive. To learn more, explore partnership opportunities, or to support the mission, visit pottstowncluster.org or contact Patricia Shepherd at pshepherd@pottstowncluster.org.

About the Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities

The Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing food insecurity, housing instability, and basic needs in the greater Pottstown area. Through collaboration with local partners, the Pottstown Cluster works to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community.

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