It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Lebanon, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I am a current client of this provider They're reliable, they're prompted, and their caregivers are”
“I am a current client of this provider It is a very excellent company. I didn't”
“I am a current client of this provider Well, they are convenient and are very understanding;”
“I am a past client of this provider I liked everyone they sent. They were all”
“I am a current client of this provider If someone needed the help, I would definitely”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the aide we have been”
“I am a past client of this provider I liked that they were prompt and courteous. I”
“I am a current client of this provider They have good/quality service. I've been caring for him”
“I am a current client of this provider The scheduling woman has worked so well with”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are prompt. I have”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are very accommodating to”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the way the woman works”
“I am a current client of this provider They're very contentious and kind. They keep me”
“I am a current client of this provider The care was very genuine. I have very caring”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency has always taken”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are really kind, and”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they have caregivers that I”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a lady in the morning that”
“I am a current client of this provider They provide care. They respond. They care and work”
“I am a current client of this provider The provider has helped me most by just”
“I am a past client of this provider They gave me good care. They fulfilled my”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me with things I can't do,”
“I have had the honor to work with John and his team. They are some”
“I am a current client of this provider The agency has made my experience positive by”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me get things done. They do what”
“I am a current client of this provider They're reliable, they're prompted, and their caregivers are very efficient and always do what you ask them to do. The assignment of the caregiver: they really try to match them to the person's personality.”
“I am a current client of this provider It is a very excellent company. I didn't know about this agency until I reached out for help. They have done everything that they could. They came to my home and helped me sign up since I couldn't leave my husband.”
“I am a current client of this provider Well, they are convenient and are very understanding; anytime I've asked about anything, I always get responses. My health has never been any more organized in a long time.”
“I am a past client of this provider I liked everyone they sent. They were all very kind and knowledgeable. It greatly reduced my stress because I knew he was in good hands.”
“I am a current client of this provider If someone needed the help, I would definitely recommend them. I have a muscle condition and need the help.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the aide we have been given is just perfect for our needs. They have helped the most because the hours they give us are from one person, not a variety of people; it's one person you get to know well.”
“I am a past client of this provider I liked that they were prompt and courteous. I liked that it made it easier for me to go to work and know that she was taken care of safely. I did not have to worry about her.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have good/quality service. I've been caring for him for the past year, and with their help, it frees up my time.”
“I am a current client of this provider The scheduling woman has worked so well with us. They get him up and out and moving about.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are prompt. I have great respect for the way they handle business. I am very pleased. They keep things clean. They don't mind staying a little late or coming in a little early. They are always nice and ask if there is anything else they can do for me.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are very accommodating to the schedule. The providers have all been gracious and nice. The quality of care has been good.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the way the woman works with me. She comes and gets things done and does what she needs to do. The provider has helped me the most by lifting my spirits.”
“I am a current client of this provider They're very contentious and kind. They keep me in good communication. If somebody has to be out, and they're not available, they get a substitute for me. The services allow me respite so I can get away from the house without worrying about his care and his needs being met.”
“I am a current client of this provider The care was very genuine. I have very caring caregivers.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that the agency has always taken care of me. The services helped me very much.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they are really kind, and their communication, openness, and flexibility are great. They keep him on track with his daily routine and hygiene.”
“I am a current client of this provider I like that they have caregivers that I can rely on. They have been extremely nice and they address my questions.”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a lady in the morning that takes care of quite well. She knows what to do. She helps me get around.”
“I am a current client of this provider They provide care. They respond. They care and work with me.”
“I am a current client of this provider The provider has helped me most by just being present in the home. Something I like about the agency is the quality of care they allow my father to receive.”
“I am a past client of this provider They gave me good care. They fulfilled my needs. They did a good job of caring for me.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me with things I can't do, like clean the bathroom. I like the caregiver and her personality.”
“I have had the honor to work with John and his team. They are some of the most kind hearted and loving people I have met. Truly professional and really care for people. Highly recommend them!!”
“I am a current client of this provider The agency has made my experience positive by doing the house cleaning. I like that the caregiver the agency sent me is prompt.”
“I am a current client of this provider They help me get things done. They do what I ask them to.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
Request More Information
While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Lebanon, PA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Lebanon, PA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Lebanon, PA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A majority of Palmyra school officials have signaled support for allowing Lebanon Area School District to potentially leave the Lebanon County Career and Technology Center (CTC), and Lebanon officials have geared up to hold public forums on creating their own program.The Palmyra Area School Board members discussed the financial impacts the CTC center would have on the district should Lebanon Area School District decide to leave. A majority of Palmyra board members said they felt "held hostage" as the Lebanon s...
A majority of Palmyra school officials have signaled support for allowing Lebanon Area School District to potentially leave the Lebanon County Career and Technology Center (CTC), and Lebanon officials have geared up to hold public forums on creating their own program.
The Palmyra Area School Board members discussed the financial impacts the CTC center would have on the district should Lebanon Area School District decide to leave. A majority of Palmyra board members said they felt "held hostage" as the Lebanon school district starts holding open forums in October about potential technology center plans.
"To sum all this up, I think Lebanon has got to go, and the sooner we can let them get out the better," board member Dave Laudermilch said during the Palmyra school board meeting Oct. 1.
Superintendent Bernie Kepler provided a statement to the Lebanon Daily News after the meeting that the district continues to support collaborative efforts among all participating districts regarding the CTC's future.
"Our district believes that the best outcomes will come through continued dialogue, collaboration, and good-faith efforts among all participating districts," Kepler said. "The issues being discussed are complex and involve both educational and financial considerations. We remain committed to working constructively with our regional partners to identify solutions that support students and provide long-term stability for the Career and Technology Center."
Kepler also noted that Palmyra's fiscal responsibilities to the CTC could "increase substantially" if costs are redistributed among fewer participating districts.
Palmyra moves ahead with $72M-plus upgrades to high schoolLebanon Transit officials start work on $41.4 million facility projectUnder the Pennsylvania School Code, no school district may withdraw from a CTC's articles of agreement without the consent of each participating school district. However, Palmyra school officials pointed out that the participating districts have to be unanimous when passing items like the new Articles of Agreement or new bond issuances.
"What I'm fearful of in our county is a hostage situation, where we don't let (Lebanon) out, well then we don't vote for a project," Kepler told the Palmyra board Oct. 1. "It's not a scenario that as the superintendent of Palmyra that I like, nor as the current superintendent of record for the CTC. ... Ultimately those scenarios have potential of harming kids."
Palmyra Area School Board members did not take an official vote at the Oct. 1 meeting regarding the future with the CTC. Officials said the district has more than 100 students going to the CTC this year.
On June 15, Lebanon Area School District voted against adopting a proposed Articles of Agreement for the CTC that included a utilizing a 50/50 method for determining long-term debt allocation among the six districts. All six participating CTC district school boards must approve the updated Articles of Agreement for the new version to take effect.
Under the 50/50 funding method, participating districts' contribution would be determined by combining average daily membership of students enrolled with State Tax Equalization Board, or STEB, numbers regarding a district's property values. The Lebanon School board had previously asked the CTC members to use a STEB only method.
CTC officials have been considering options for a major renovation project of the CTC's 60-year-old facilities. Palmyra officials said there would be major financial ramifications should Lebanon decide to withdraw from the CTC.
"If Lebanon withdrew ... (Palmyra) would be estimated to pay over $1.5 million on an $80 million project, and $1.8 million on a $93 million project," Kepler told the Palmyra board. "So you can see from a 50/50 on a $93 million project, on an annual basis Palmyra would be paying $500,000 for the debt should Lebanon withdraw."
Currently, Palmyra is paying just under $1.2 million this year as their contribution to the CTC's annual operating budget this year. Kepler said that if Lebanon withdrew from the CTC with the same figures, Palmyra's contribution would be increase by 362,000 for a total $1.56 million.
"That takes into the assumption that there are no other changes," Kepler said. "All programs are operating, same number of students. ... Most programs, there are an extensive waiting lists to get into the CTC."
Lebanon Area School District officials have discussed plans to develop their own career and technology education program at the former Lebanon Catholic High School property, purchased in 2025. In an email to the Lebanon Daily News, Lebanon Superintendent Nicole Malinoski said Lebanon anticipates investing approximately $2 million in the construction and annual operation of its own career and technical education program.
"We recognize that Lebanon’s withdrawal from the LCCTC would have financial implications for the remaining districts," she wrote. "However, it would not be equitable to ask Lebanon taxpayers to assume a substantially higher annual obligation under a revised 50/50 funding formula when those same funds could be invested directly in a district-operated program that would provide career and technical education opportunities to significantly more Lebanon students."
The district is hosting three public forums about their plans, with meeting dates to include:
A majority of Palmyra school board members said that the five remaining CTC districts could survive without Lebanon's participation, adding that more students from Palmyra could attend the center's programs.
"When I first saw this, I was like, 'Oh my God, this seems like it could be a real crisis,'" board member Dr. David Lillenstein said. "But listening to the conversation, it seems like I think everybody is thinking maybe this is a great opportunity to look at how CTC is addressed in Lebanon County."
Board members highlighted that Lebanon's STEB proposal would have them paying the least of the six districts, even though they are providing more students to the CTC. Laudermilch described the proposal as a "financial scandal" to other districts, adding that the 50/50 model was a more equitable agreement for everyone.
"In the 50/50 scenario, four districts have offered to pay more, Lebanon would be getting a $400,000 discount," Laudermilch said. "They say that's not enough, 'We need more.'"
Palmyra school officials are already looking into a high school renovation that is currently expected to cost between $72.5 and $84.1 million. Board members acknowledged that increased costs to the CTC would factor into that project, especially if the district is contributing more to the CTC renovation project.
"If we say, 'Lebanon see you later,' are we going to be able to make this work financially?" board member Josh Brinser said.
Palmyra Area School Board members agreed to continue ongoing discussions with fellow member districts regarding the future of the CTC. But a majority Oct. 1 agreed that if Lebanon school officials wanted to withdraw, Palmyra officials would not be stopping them from walking out the door.
"I think removing them from the equation here puts them between a rock and a hard place, not the other five (districts)," Laudermilch said.
Residents looking for more information about how to contact the Palmyra Area School Board can visit the district's website at pasd.us.
Lebanon County leaders warn of growing senior housing crisis NY woman charged with human trafficking at North Londonderry Twp. spa 'Welcome home.' Veterans find peace at traveling Vietnam War memorial The Wall That Heals arrives in Campbelltown to honor Vietnam veterans Thousands rally behind City Watch Coffee owner facing deportation City Watch Coffee owner detained by ICE, faces deportation to Cambodia Firefighters, teen honored for saving driver from Richland train hit Lebanon officials vote to restrict e-bikes on sidewalks, city parks Rangers, civilian honored for saving life at Swatara State ParkMatthew Toth is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at [email protected] or on X at @DAMattToth.
>> Please consider subscribing to support local journalism.
Visitors spent about $280.8 million in Lebanon County in 2025, up about 4.5% from roughly $268.6 million in 2024, according to a new report released by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.The report, “2025 Economic Impact of Visitors to Pennsylvania,” was produced by Tourism Economics and unveiled by DCED Secretary Rick Siger. It shows the county partly recovering from a 2024 drop of about 9.5%. Spending remains below the roughly $296 million visitors spent in the county in both 2022 and 2023....
Visitors spent about $280.8 million in Lebanon County in 2025, up about 4.5% from roughly $268.6 million in 2024, according to a new report released by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
The report, “2025 Economic Impact of Visitors to Pennsylvania,” was produced by Tourism Economics and unveiled by DCED Secretary Rick Siger. It shows the county partly recovering from a 2024 drop of about 9.5%. Spending remains below the roughly $296 million visitors spent in the county in both 2022 and 2023.
Lebanon County is part of the “Dutch Country Roads” tourism region, which also includes Adams, Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lancaster, Perry, and York counties. Visitors spent about $10.4 billion across the region in 2025, up 2.8% from the year before.
Lebanon County’s 4.5% increase was the second largest in the region, behind Cumberland County’s roughly 5.5% gain. Berks County was the only county in the region where visitor spending fell in 2025, dropping about 1% to $915.1 million.
In dollar terms, Lebanon County’s visitor spending was the second smallest in the region, ahead of only Perry County’s $48.2 million. Dauphin County led the region with about $2.8 billion, followed closely by Lancaster County.
Here’s how Lebanon County’s visitor spending has changed in recent years, according to the report:
Transportation was the largest category of visitor spending in Lebanon County in 2025 at $75 million. It was followed by food and beverage at $72.1 million, recreation at $57.8 million, retail at $48.2 million, and lodging at $27.6 million. The report counts all types of accommodations as lodging, and it includes both ground and air travel in transportation.
The report estimates that visitor spending directly supported 1,811 jobs in Lebanon County in 2025, up from 1,795 in 2024. Those jobs generated about $68.9 million in personal income. Direct visitor spending also produced about $14.3 million in state and local taxes and $16.6 million in federal taxes.
When indirect and induced effects are included, the report puts tourism’s total economic impact in Lebanon County at $494.4 million in business sales. By that measure, tourism supported 3,178 jobs, $132.6 million in personal income, $29.7 million in state and local taxes, and $30.3 million in federal taxes. Indirect effects come from the businesses that supply tourism, and induced effects come from workers spending their wages.
Across the Dutch Country Roads region, visitor spending directly supported 68,386 jobs, an increase of 597 jobs, or 0.9%, from 2024. Including indirect and induced impacts, visitor-supported jobs made up 9.5% of all jobs in the region and 7% of wages earned there, according to the report.
Statewide, 206.2 million visitors spent $51.6 billion in Pennsylvania in 2025. That’s an increase of nearly 4.6 million visitors and 3.5% in spending from 2024. The report puts tourism’s total economic impact in the state at $87.2 billion, up $3.3 billion from 2024. By its count, the industry supported 521,021 jobs, about 6.3% of all jobs in Pennsylvania, and generated $5.2 billion in state and local taxes.
According to DCED, the state’s tourism industry has grown by $6.4 billion and 13,427 jobs since Gov. Josh Shapiro took office. Under Shapiro, the state has marketed itself as the “Great American Getaway,” and the 2026-27 state budget includes $19.5 million to market Pennsylvania to tourists.
“Pennsylvania tourism has real momentum, and these numbers show it,” said Anne Ryan, DCED deputy secretary of tourism. “More people are choosing Pennsylvania, they’re staying longer, spending more, and supporting the small businesses and communities that make this commonwealth such an incredible place to visit.”
Here are the most recent food safety violations in Lebanon County, as documented by Pennsylvania’s Department of Agriculture.Inspections are taken as a “snapshot” of the day and time, and should not necessarily be taken as overall indicators of an establishment’s cleanliness. Violations are often corrected prior to the inspector leaving the site. Restaurants were found to be in compliance unless otherwise noted.CC’s PizzaOctober 1, 2026 | 75 W Main St, Lebanon, PA 17042...
Here are the most recent food safety violations in Lebanon County, as documented by Pennsylvania’s Department of Agriculture.
Inspections are taken as a “snapshot” of the day and time, and should not necessarily be taken as overall indicators of an establishment’s cleanliness. Violations are often corrected prior to the inspector leaving the site. Restaurants were found to be in compliance unless otherwise noted.
October 1, 2026 | 75 W Main St, Lebanon, PA 17042
46.1201 (b) General Recognition of Certification ProgramsThe food facility has an employee who held a Certified Food Manager certificate; however, the certificate has expired and is no longer valid.
October 1, 2026 | 1201 Quentin Rd, Lebanon, PA 17042
6 – 201.18 Walls and Ceilings, Studs, Joists, and RaftersThe door to the outside at the rear of the building has a gap and is allowing light and/or pests to enter.
6 – 501.12 Cleaning, Frequency and RestrictionsThe cooler cleanliness is inadequate and has a brown, sticky substance in the corners under the drink storage.
October 1, 2026 | 1780 Quentin Rd, Lebanon, PA 17042
3 – 304.14 Wiping Cloths, Use LimitationsObserved wet wiping cloths in the production area not being stored in sanitizer solution.
3 – 302.11 Packaged and Unpackaged Food-Separation, Packaging, and SegregationObserved several bus tubs of marinating chicken being stored above ready-to-eat foods in the walk-in cooler. Corrected.
3 – 307.11 Miscellaneous Sources of ContaminationObserved a personal cell phone stored on the same shelf as food equipment and above cold food storage wells. Corrected.
5 – 205.15 System Maintained in Good RepairThe plumbing system is not maintained in good repair. Observed the spigot leaking at the main handwashing sink.
3 – 302.12 Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of FoodObserved several food ingredient storage bins in the dry storage area not being labeled with the common name of the food.
3 – 304.12 In-Use Utensils, Between-Use StorageObserved dispensing utensils in bulk food bins stored in the food and not with the handle above the top of the food and the container. Corrected.
September 30, 2026 | 400 S Forge Rd, Palmyra, PA 17078
No violations found.
September 30, 2026 | 333 Market St, Jonestown, PA 17038
No violations found.
September 30, 2026 | 600 Lingle Ave, Palmyra, PA 17078
4 – 601.11(B-C) Equipment, Food Contact Surfaces, Non-Food Contact Surfaces, and UtensilsThe fan guards in the walk-in cooler are dusty and in need of cleaning.
5 – 501.17 Toilet Room Receptacle, CoveredThe women’s toilet room is not provided with a covered waste receptacle for sanitary napkins.
September 30, 2026 | 50 W Pine St, Palmyra, PA 17078
4 – 204.112 Design and Functionality of Temperature Measuring DevicesThe temperature measuring device in the two-door upright refrigerator is broken and needs to be replaced.
3 – 303.12 Storage or Display of Food in Contact with Water or IceFood in the two-door upright refrigerator that is covered has water from the drain pan for the fan cover dripping onto the plastic.
4 – 204.12 Equipment Openings, Closures, and DeflectorsThe drip pan in the two-door upright refrigerator is leaking water onto food and not draining properly.
4 – 204.115 Warewashing Machines, Temperature Measuring DevicesThe final rinse temperature gauge on the high-temp dishwasher is broken and in need of repair or replacement.
4 – 501.112 Mechanical Warewashing Equipment, Hot Water Sanitation TemperaturesThe hot water used for sanitizing in the mechanical warewashing machine did not reach 180°F. The disc used reached 141°F, and the prop thermometer reached 144.1°F. The facility is waiting on a part, and they are sanitizing in the three-compartment sink once run through the dishwasher. Corrected.
6 – 501.12 Cleaning, Frequency and RestrictionsThere is standing water in the corner under the tray return counter, creating an area for small flies. Observed five or more around the drain.
September 30, 2026 | 1745 Quentin Rd, Lebanon, PA 17042
4 – 602.13 Nonfood-Contact SurfacesObserved the fan guard covers in the walk-in cooler area with an accumulation of dust.
6 – 301.11 Handwashing Cleanser, AvailabilitySoap was not available at the handwashing sink in the back room of the Starbucks area. Corrected.
6 – 501.115 Prohibiting AnimalsObserved a live small dog on the premises of the food facility in the store area. Discussed with lead.
September 29, 2026 | 5 N Londonderry Sq, Palmyra, PA 17078
No violations found.
September 29, 2026 | 905 S College St, Myerstown, PA 17067
3 – 501.16(A2)(B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Cold HoldingSandwiches being made in the deli were at 50°F and were not being chilled to 41°F within two hours before being wrapped and placed in the display refrigerator.
September 29, 2026 | 145 E Penn Ave, Cleona, PA 17042
6 – 202.15 Outer Openings, ProtectedObserved side door propped open, with no screen, allowing for entry of flying insects, pests, etc. Corrected.
2 – 402.11 Effectiveness-Hair RestraintsObserved food employees in the production area not wearing proper hair restraints.
3 – 501.19 Time as a Public Health ControlTime in lieu of temperature is being used in the food facility to control ready-to-eat potentially hazardous whole pizza pies without written procedures or documentation to verify the disposition of food.
4 – 302.14 Sanitizing Solutions, Testing DevicesThe food facility does not have available sanitizer test strips to determine the appropriate sanitizer concentration.
6 – 301.12 Hand Drying ProvisionThe paper towel dispenser is empty at the handwashing sink in the service area. Corrected.
September 29, 2026 | 1451 Quentin Rd, Lebanon, PA 17042
6 – 301.12 Hand Drying ProvisionThe paper towel dispenser is empty at the handwashing sink in the cookie and the main prep areas. Corrected.
3 – 304.12 In-Use Utensils, Between-Use StorageObserved in-use knives stored between table edges or between tables, areas not easily cleanable and sanitized. Corrected.
2 – 402.11 Effectiveness-Hair RestraintsObserved a food employee in the cookie assembly area not wearing proper hair restraint, and observed a food employee in the main production area not wearing a beard cover.
3 – 304.14 Wiping Cloths, Use LimitationsObserved wet wiping cloths in the production area not being stored in sanitizer solution.
Found to be out of compliance.
September 28, 2026 | 443 W Penn Ave, Cleona, PA 17042
2 – 402.11 Effectiveness-Hair RestraintsObserved food employees in the main production area not wearing proper hair restraints, such as hairnets, hats, and beard covers.
3 – 307.11 Miscellaneous Sources of ContaminationObserved numerous personal items, such as a cell phone, a hoodie, a scooter, and a bicycle, stored on top of, inside of, and around food, food equipment, and food storage shelving. Corrected.
2 – 102.11(A-C1)(C4-16) Person in Charge, DemonstrationThe Person in Charge did not demonstrate adequate knowledge of food safety in this food facility, as evidenced by this non-compliant inspection.
3 – 501.16(A1) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Hot HoldingObserved marinara meatballs being held at 102°F in the hot well service area, rather than 135°F or above as required. Discarded. Previous violation on July 8, 2026.
4 – 601.11(A) Equipment, Food Contact Surfaces, Non-Food Contact Surfaces, and UtensilsObserved knife sanitizing well, a food contact surface, to have floating food residue and was not clean to the sight and touch. Corrected.
3 – 501.17 Ready-to-Eat, Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Date MarkingRefrigerated ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared in the food facility, such as tuna salad and sliced luncheon meats, being held for more than 24 hours, located in the walk-in cooler, is not being consistently date marked.
6 – 301.12 Hand Drying ProvisionThe paper towel dispenser was empty at the handwashing sink in the main prep area. Corrected. Previous violation on July 8, 2026.
4 – 702.11 Before Use After CleaningObserved no chemical sanitizer being used on equipment and utensils after washing and rinsing them.
5 – 205.11 Using a Handwashing Sink-Operation and MaintenanceObserved old food residue in the handwashing sink, indicating use other than handwashing.
September 27, 2026 | 724 W Main St, Annville, PA 17003
No violations found.
September 27, 2026 | 7 E Main St, Annville, PA 17003
46.1201 (a) Statutory RequirementA Food Employee Certification is displayed, but the individual is no longer employed by the retail food facility. Previous violations on July 8, 2026, Jan. 16, 2026, and July 7, 2025.
2 – 402.11 Effectiveness-Hair RestraintsObserved food employees in the prep area not wearing proper hair restraints. Corrected.
3 – 501.16(A1) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Hot HoldingObserved marinara meatballs being held at 92°F in the service area, rather than 135°F or above as required. Discarded. Previous violations on July 8, 2026, and Jan. 8, 2025.
Executive director of Lebanon County Christian Ministries (LCCM) Bryan Smith appreciates the Hunters Sharing the Harvest program for several reasons.“One, the hunter is rewarded with the ability to donate to a food pantry,” Smith said. “Two, as a pantry, we are able to get the venison at no cost. Three, the venison provides an incredibly healthy and high-quality frozen meat.”Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH) is Pennsylvania’s premier venison donation program that coordinates the processing and dist...
Executive director of Lebanon County Christian Ministries (LCCM) Bryan Smith appreciates the Hunters Sharing the Harvest program for several reasons.
“One, the hunter is rewarded with the ability to donate to a food pantry,” Smith said. “Two, as a pantry, we are able to get the venison at no cost. Three, the venison provides an incredibly healthy and high-quality frozen meat.”
Hunters Sharing the Harvest (HSH) is Pennsylvania’s premier venison donation program that coordinates the processing and distribution of hunter-harvested deer to local food banks, soup kitchens, and pantries, according to information listed on the charitable nonprofit’s website.
Smith said LCCM is happy to participate and will do pickups at abattoirs within a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Lebanon city.
“We have received approximately 800 pounds per year for the last three or so years,” he added. “The venison is provided in our frozen meat section of the Market on 7th for our community to choose. We have found many households enjoy and choose venison.”
Calls to HSH executive director Randy Ferguson were not returned as of publication, but he was recently interviewed about the program on the Accessible Hunters podcast, which is available on YouTube.
Ferguson told the podcast hosts that 2025 was a record year for donations to a program that began in the 1980s and was chartered in 1991.
“We had 284,000, just shy of 284,000 pounds of venison donated, and that was from about 7,800 deer across the state,” Ferguson said. “So, you know, these Pennsylvania hunters just keep blowing me away from year to year. I’ve gotten to the point now where I don’t even question whether they’re capable of breaking another record ’cause I can just about count on it every year.”
“So you take 284,000 pounds of venison and you figure it’s about a quarter of a pound per serving. So a pound yields about four servings,” Ferguson said. “So you’re looking at somewhere in the neighborhood of 1.2 million servings of venison that were provided through food banks, soup kitchens, you name it, all around the commonwealth last year.”
They discussed on the broadcast the benefits of food pantries like LCCM having access to a food source that’s high in protein.
“When I get a call from a regional food bank or a local soup kitchen or someone like that that just talks about how much they appreciate this product that comes to their clients,” Ferguson said. “It’s so lean, it’s literally almost fat free, it’s so high in protein that from the food banks perspective, it’s a wonder food because it goes the furthest for them, it helps them achieve the most feeding of hungry people because you give a family a pound of venison, they’re getting a pound of meat that’s going to be shared. … So the food banks, the whole hunger relief system just really appreciates this protein source.”
Ferguson said in the early days of the program, hunters who wished to donate their venison were asked to pay a small fee to cover the cost of processing. That, however, has changed, and there is no charge to hunters to participate.
HSH’s website notes that “there is no fee for hunters to donate a legally tagged and field-dressed whole deer, thanks to funding from the PA Game Commission, the PA Department of Agriculture, corporate sponsors, and public donations.”
“We’ve always considered that donating the deer is the good that you’re doing there,” Ferguson said on the podcast. “You shouldn’t also have a financial stake in things. But for years and years to sort of help fund the program, we asked for what we called a $15 copay. It wasn’t an absolute requirement, but we asked the hunter if they would chip in that portion and that helped us just sort of, you know, start to build some funding. And that was the way it operated for probably the first 20 years or so. … We have not had a co-pay of any sort for 10 to 12 years now.”
HSH’s website notes that there are two processors in Lebanon County: Sadler’s Custom Butchering, Richland, and Twin Pines Custom Meats, Myerstown. Other processors near Lebanon County can be found on the HSH processors’ page.
Archery season for white-tailed deer began Oct. 3 in Pennsylvania, and both butcher shops are accepting donations. The statewide white-tailed deer rifle season for most hunters opens the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
“When my dad had the business, he had started participating in it (HSH) and it’s a way to help out and donate to the local food drive here in town,” said Nelson Sadler, who added he received about 60 donated deer in 2025. “It’s a way to help out the community and a way to help out the hunters.”
Sadler said he’s delivered processed venison to the Lebanon Rescue Mission in the past.
All donated meat is ground into burger before it is distributed to maximize the ways it can be used, according to Ferguson.
“We do everything as ground burger. It’s the most efficient way to distribute the meat. The food banks prefer it that way,” Ferguson said. “Sometimes they’re doing actual feedings at their location so we might even have a processor that sends them like five pound bags of venison burgers so that they can use it in chili or sloppy joes or spaghetti sauce or whatever it might be.”
Packaged burger is also the most convenient method for distribution to families who prepare their meals at home, he added.
“If they’re distributing food to people, they want to just be able to provide them with something that they can go home and they’ll know how to prepare it because we tell them just prepare it the same as you would, that same pound of burger if you bought it from the grocery store,” noted Ferguson.
Susan Blouch, executive director of the Lebanon Rescue Mission, is appreciative of hunters who donate their game and of local butcher shops for providing a source of food to the mission’s residents.
“Sadler’s Butchery have been a faithful donor of venison. In 2025, they donated 1,100 pounds of venison. They will provide ground venison, meat sticks, sausage, and bologna,” said Blouch. She added that Jenny Topping, director of LRM’s Food Services, said that “1,100 pounds of meat will provide over 4,000 meals, and the meat can be used in sauces, tacos, casseroles, bologna sandwiches, and burgers.”
Blouch added that Topping had also mentioned that Bur-Pak Family Foods has also been a faithful and generous donor for the mission through this program.
Non-hunters can still give to the program to help support the local community. HSH’s website notes that a $25 donation covers the processing costs to provide up to 100 nutritious venison meals for families facing food insecurity.
For the local food pantries and those facing food insecurity, Smith states that HSH provides “a number of wins all around” for Lebanon Valley residents.
Questions about this story? Suggestions for a future LebTown article? Reach our newsroom using this contact form and we’ll do our best to get back to you.
Join our community of local news champions.
Cancel anytime.
Join the 1,100+ readers who support our work as members
Already a member? Log in here to hide these messages
Free local news isn’t cheap. If you value the coverage LebTown provides, help us make it sustainable. You can unlock more reporting for the community by joining as a monthly or annual member, or supporting our work with a one-time contribution. Cancel anytime.
James Mentzer is a freelance writer and lifelong resident of Pennsylvania. He has spent his professional career writing about agriculture, economic development, manufacturing and the energy and real estate industries, and is the county reporter and a features writer for LebTown. James is an outdoor...
PENNSYLVANIA (WHP) — Gov. Josh Shapiro announced a $152 million investment from Bell & Evans on Thursday to support the premium poultry producer's Bethel Township expansion.The Lebanon County expansion efforts hope to create more than 380 jobs over the next three years, state officials announced.Additionally, the Commonwealth is providing $2 million through a Pennsylvania First grant for the project, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.This will help the company retain...
PENNSYLVANIA (WHP) — Gov. Josh Shapiro announced a $152 million investment from Bell & Evans on Thursday to support the premium poultry producer's Bethel Township expansion.
The Lebanon County expansion efforts hope to create more than 380 jobs over the next three years, state officials announced.
Additionally, the Commonwealth is providing $2 million through a Pennsylvania First grant for the project, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
This will help the company retain more than 2,500 full-time jobs, according to the announcement.
Shapiro said the investment will support Pennsylvania's agriculture industry and its family farms.
“Bell & Evans has been a part of Pennsylvania’s economy for more than a hundred years,” Shapiro said in a statement. “This investment will continue to support family farms and ensure we remain a national leader in the agriculture industry for generations to come.”
The company is a fifth-generation family-owned business and described itself sa America's oldest branded chicken company, the announcement noted. Bell & Evans produces chicken raised without antibiotics as well as organic-certified chicken.
The expansion is part of the Shapiro administration's efforts to reinvigorate investment in Pennsylvania's agriculture and food industries. Agriculture contributes $132.5 billion annually to Pennsylvania's economy and supports nearly 600,000 jobs, according to a news release.
Additionally, Shapiro's office said it has secured more than $43 billion in private-sector investments since he took office, with those projects expected to create nearly 29,000 jobs.
“Deals like this are proof that putting agriculture at the center of Pennsylvania’s economic development strategy is working," Shapiro continued. "When I took office, I made clear that we would grow our economy and that agriculture would be central to that work – and that’s exactly what we have done. My Administration is focused on making it easier for businesses to invest, grow, and create opportunity here in Pennsylvania — and we’ll keep competing to bring more major investments and more good jobs to communities across our Commonwealth.”
Bell & Evans owner and Chairman Scott Sechler Sr. expressed how proud he is to be leading the growth of Pennsylvania agriculture, and he said the company plans to continue expanding its operations in Pennsylvania.
“Pennsylvania is our home,” Sechler said. “We’re here to stay—building communities, creating strong livelihoods for our team members and offering stability for farmers.”
610.456.9692
