Family Honors Martha Cusimano’s Legacy with New Food Pantry

Martha Cusimano, a beloved figure in the Lehigh Valley, passed away on November 30, 2023, at the age of 82. As a testament to her enduring spirit and commitment to community service, her family has initiated a campaign to raise the final $300,000 needed to complete a food pantry and community center in Kissimmee, Florida. This project is one of Cusimano’s last wishes and reflects her lifelong dedication to helping others.

Born in 1943 in Buffalo, New York, Cusimano was a prominent community leader known for her tenacity and passion for philanthropy. After retiring in 2008 as the first executive director of the Greater Lehigh Valley Auto Dealers Association, she relocated to Florida but maintained strong ties with her roots in Pennsylvania. Friends and family remember her as someone who never let go of her relationships, often coordinating regular calls and visits across states.

Cusimano’s battle with breast cancer began in 2006, and she fought valiantly for 19 years. Even during her illness, she remained focused on her community goals. According to her family, she was actively involved in fundraising for the Lima Center, a community hub connected to the St. Rose of Lima Church, until her health declined. This center aims to expand the church’s food pantry, which served over 70,000 individuals during the pandemic, by adding a commercial kitchen and space for community events.

A Legacy of Service and Community Impact

Throughout her life, Cusimano exemplified community service. Her initiatives included organizing the first marathon for Catholic schools in 1979, which raised significant funds for education. She also played a pivotal role in creating the Lehigh Valley Auto Show, which attracts thousands of visitors annually and raises approximately $150,000 each year for local charities.

Her daughter, Patti Gomas, remarked on her mother’s unwavering dedication to service. “She never did anything alone; she brought people together to accomplish great things,” Gomas said. This sentiment was echoed by Dan Dillard, former executive director of the Burn Prevention Foundation, who described Cusimano as someone who had “no tolerance or understanding of the word no.”

Martha Cusimano was also involved in local politics, running for a seat in the 135th state House District in 1994. Though she did not win, her candidacy was motivated by a desire to advocate for her community. Later in life, she transitioned her political affiliations and became actively involved with the Osceola County Democrats, where she led voter registration training and worked on campaigns for various candidates.

A Community Come Together

Following her passing, Cusimano’s family and friends are committed to fulfilling her vision for the Lima Center. They have launched a fundraising campaign to gather the necessary funds for the project, which has already seen significant contributions totaling $4 million. The community’s response reflects the impact Cusimano had on those around her, inspiring many to contribute in her memory.

Jim Cusimano, her husband, emphasized the importance of remembering her generosity and leadership. “She was able to attract others to help her in the various missions that she conducted,” he said. The community’s efforts to complete the Lima Center are a fitting tribute to her legacy, ensuring that her dedication to service will continue to benefit those in need for years to come.

For those wishing to support this initiative, the fundraising campaign can be found on GoFundMe at gofund.me/ef3e926a4. The completion of the Lima Center will not only honor Martha Cusimano’s memory but also provide essential resources for the community she cherished throughout her life.