About

Lancaster County Field of Hope is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help ease the financial burden of unexpected medical issues or long-term care for families in our community. 

There is nothing more challenging for the healthy family members than the heavy financial load they carry when a crippling illness or accident strikes.

That’s where Lancaster County Field of Hope, a 501 (c) 3 founded by Carol and Pete Heth, comes in. They provide help and hope to Lancaster County families facing financial hardship due to extraordinary, unexpected medical expenses.

A few years ago, Carol and Pete attended a popular extraordinary dining experience on a farm to celebrate the hardworking hands that feed us: farmers, chefs, cheesemakers, vintners, brewers, bakers and more.  The money raised was profit for the smart and savvy founder of the event. 

Carol thought, “Why can’t we do something like this in the field on our farm to help people?”  That’s when Lancaster County Field of Hope began. 

Carol put her vision and natural leadership skills into action. She gathered a team of family and friends and found three local families in need. In less than a year, they organized an exquisite culinary experience for 90 guests at their 1860’s Lancaster County farm. Together, they raised $17,000, and were able to give each family $5,000 to use however they wished.  

Each year since, the Lancaster County Field of Hope committee selects up to six local beneficiaries. As of September 2024, Carol and her committed volunteers will have given more than $440,000 for 38 families in duress. 

It takes a community to support the Lancaster County Field of Hope, and Carol’s influence is far- reaching. By sharing her passion with stand owners at Lancaster Central Market, where she’s shopped for years, she has received donations of fresh meats, produce, cheeses, chocolates and desserts. She has inspired businesses to donate marketing, printing and décor. Fine wine and craft beer are donated. Musicians contribute their talents. Philanthropists provide financially. And, approximately, 60 volunteers give their time to execute her vision. 

Because of Carol’s bighearted generosity, needy families in Lancaster County are given help and hope.