Holiday surprise for shoppers in the Poconos

MT. POCONO, MONROE CO. (WOLF) — After another tough year rebounding from disruptions brought on by the pandemic, for the first time today, Mount Airy Casino and Resort decided to bring some holiday cheer to some lucky shoppers by paying for their groceries.

“It’s amazing. I love it. I’m amazed,” said John Mitchell, who is visiting his mother in the Poconos for the holidays, was surprised this morning when he was doing his Christmas shopping. “They gave me this, Casino, thank you,” said Mitchell.

Mitchell is one of many who received a gift card to pay for his groceries. The gift cards were given as a holiday surprise from Mount Airy Casino in the Poconos.

“This is a critical time of year especially, so we’re just really thrilled to be able to give away some free groceries and give back to our community,” said Glenn Cademartori of Mount Airy Casino and Resort.

Mount Airy Casino partnered up with nearby ShopRite for the giveaway to spread some holiday cheer. Twenty $250 gift cards were given out randomly to lucky shoppers at checkout.

“It’s very important to families right now, because of the holidays, but also because of the pandemic and all of the hardship that we have around us. It’s very important to show you know positivity rather than negativity in such a in such a good time, like now,” said Kelly Pulice, of ShopRite.

“This was awesome, we just did a Christmas shopping for free and we have $50 leftover,” said Kresimir Penavic, from Pocono Pines, who was another lucky recipient today. He said the surprise was extra sweet after a difficult year.

“We have our three girls coming either tomorrow or Friday and I can’t say we are not a bit worried but you got to celebrate Christmas with family. Last year was sad, my dad died and we were alone. So, this year I want my family with me,” said Penavic.

The giveaway was such a success, we’re told they’re hoping to make it a yearly occurrence. A total of $5,000 was given out in gift cards today.