ALLENTOWN, Pa. — A local nonprofit is helping families stretch their budgets while supporting its mission through a popular community fundraiser at the South Mall.
For just five or ten dollars, shoppers can fill a bag with clothing and other items during the Caring Hearts Boutique’s second annual fill-a-bag event, drawing hundreds of people looking for a deal and a way to give back.
“I actually found out about this through my coworker. She sent me the flyer, and me and her are frequent thrifters, and it’s for a good cause,” said Jasmine Broderick, one of many participants.
The event, held Thursday evening, is part of an ongoing effort by Caring Hearts, a nonprofit that also operates a free clothing closet in Allentown.
Founder and CEO Denise Martinez said her work is driven by a passion for helping others and offering hope to those in need.
“I actually have some homeless people shopping in here right now. They are here from a homeless encampment and I am helping them,” Martinez said.
In addition to serving the local community, some shoppers are using the event to support people abroad. Carmen Sterling said she plans to take four bags of clothing to Belize.
“It means the world to me, especially going to a country that needs it, that needs it more than America needs it. It means a lot to me to be going to Belize,” Sterling said.
The fundraiser continues Friday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the South Mall.
Organizers say donations are also welcome. Shoppers can stop by Caring Hearts Boutique Thursday through Sunday to drop off clothing items, with men’s clothing currently in high demand.