From Opportunity House
Opportunity House is asking the community to support local families in need through its Fill-A-Truck donation event on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Raymour and Flanigan Furniture, 629 Snyder Road, Leesport.
This initiative helps replenish essential supplies for Opportunity House, including food, clothing, and household items that help families as they work to rebuild their lives. However, this year, there is an increased urgency. The ongoing Pennsylvania state budget impasse and the recent federal government shutdown have disrupted funding streams that sustain food assistance and shelter programs, leaving local food pantries struggling to keep up with demand.
“Our food pantry here at Opportunity House and at Beacon House are both running critically low,” said Alyssa Bushkie, CEO of Opportunity House. “With delays in state and federal funding, we’re depending more than ever on the generosity of our community. Every can of soup, box of cereal, or bag of beans donated helps ensure that local families don’t go hungry.”
Community members are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items — including canned goods, beans, pasta, cereal, and juice — as well as gently used furniture, clothing, and household items. All donations will directly benefit families in Berks County.
What began as a furniture donation event quickly expanded as the need increased. The team at Raymour and Flanigan Furniture wanted to expand it to care for those who are struggling to put food on the table. Opportunity House appreciates its support and compassion for people in the community. They continue to support Opportunity House’s mission to help families get back on their feet by asking their customers to donate their gently used furniture to Opportunity House throughout the year.
As the holidays approach, many people are in the market for new furniture. Donating their gently used furniture gives families experiencing homelessness the essential items they need to rebuild their lives. Clients receive vouchers to select items they need when they move to permanent housing. Dressers, kitchen tables with chairs, beds, and sofas are some of the most needed items.
Clothing is always needed for the over 500 people who walk through the doors at Opportunity House each year. Clients who need clothing select items they need at OppShop at no cost to the client. In addition to providing essential items for clients at Opportunity House, OppShop provides affordable clothing and household items in the Berks County community. And, 100% of the proceeds benefit programs and services at Opportunity House. Additionally, the Reuse & Recycle program creates jobs for formerly homeless clients, and Opportunity House diverts over 1 million pounds from local landfills.
“At Opportunity House, we empower individuals to improve their lives,” added Bushkie. “Partnerships like this one make it possible for us to meet urgent community needs. We’re so thankful to Raymour and Flanigan and to everyone who helps fill the truck.”
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Source: bctv