Lehigh Valley Icon Martha Cusimano's Legacy: Family Races to Finish Her Dream Food Pantry in Florida

Martha Cusimano, a beloved figure in the Lehigh Valley known for her tireless fundraising efforts, passed away recently at age 83. Her family and friends are now rallying to fulfill her dying wish: completing a new food pantry and community center at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Kissimmee, Florida.

A Lifelong Dedication to Community Service

Cusimano left an indelible mark on the Lehigh Valley through decades of charitable work. After retiring in 2008 as the first executive director of the Greater Lehigh Valley Auto Dealers Association (GLVADA), she continued her passion for helping others in Florida.

In the Lehigh Valley, she organized the Concours d’Elegance vintage car show for a decade, raising over $100,000 annually for the Burn Prevention Foundation (now Burn Prevention Network). She also played a key role in establishing GLVADA after the success of the 1997 Lehigh Valley Auto Show, which has generated millions for local nonprofits focused on children, education, and health.

Her Final Wish: Expanding Help in Kissimmee

After moving to Florida, Cusimano and her husband Jim led efforts to build a new church at St. Rose of Lima, opening in 2017. She then spearheaded fundraising for the food pantry, helping raise over $2 million. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the existing pantry served more than 70,000 people.

The new 4,000-square-foot community center will include a commercial kitchen and space for events, greatly expanding capacity to fight hunger in the area.

With construction underway, the campaign needs a final $300,000 to complete the project—Cusimano's ultimate goal before her passing.

Family and Friends Step Up

"Martha never gave up on anything she started," said her daughter, Patti Gomas. Lehigh Valley friends and former colleagues are joining the effort, bridging communities across states to honor her legacy.

Donations are being accepted through St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church to ensure Cusimano's vision becomes reality.