The Allentown Rescue Mission proudly announced the recipient of its 2026 Kapoor
Cares Award, Eddinger Propane Gas, Inc.
Eddinger Propane Gas, a family-owned and operated business since 1890, embodies the spirit and
dedication of the award created last year to acknowledge the lifetime giving of Kris and Preeta Kapor.
Tom Eddinger has faithfully donated to the Allentown Rescue Mission for more than thirty years. His
gifts have helped countless men experiencing homelessness change the trajectory of their lives.
Before entering the family business, Eddinger spent five years teaching English at Reading High School.
In 1977, he decided to follow the pull he was feeling to return to the family trade. Eddinger helped
expand the business to include propane gas. The additional revenue line sparked significant growth in
the business. Today, the company is a fourth-generation enterprise that employs 35 staff members.
Eddinger donates to the Allentown Rescue Mission as an act of love to honor his late wife, Paula. Paula
passed away from cancer, and ever since, Eddinger has given to the Mission on the anniversary of her
passing. “I wanted to do something in Paula’s memory. I know she would be happy knowing that we’re
helping serve the men at the Rescue Mission. I’m thankful to the Lord who blesses me with the ability
to give,” he said.
Following the award presentation, Eddinger met with residents of the Mission’s eight-week
Transformation Program. He took time to listen to their experiences, share his personal story, and offer
guidance on achieving success through a life of faith.
Despite decades of generosity, Eddinger remains sincerely humble about his role as a donor. Instead of
seeking recognition, he insists on praising the staff and the men seeking services, “What I do is the easy
part (he said to the staff). You’re the ones walking alongside these men through their ups and downs.”