L. MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. – A popular Lehigh Valley fundraiser is back, turning bargain hunting into a way to give back to local families facing cancer.

69 News Reporter Sydney Kay was in Lower Macungie Township with details ahead of Tuesday’s 50th annual sale.

The Boutique for Hope is a sale of new and gently used clothing, household goods, antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing and accessories, toys, games, sporting equipment and high-end boutique items, according to the organization website.

The website says Boutique for Hope benefits three organizations serving cancer patients and their families in the Lehigh Valley: Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley, St. Luke’s Cancer Center, and St. Luke’s Hospice.

It is taking place from Tuesday through Saturday at the St. Luke’s property at 3801 Brookside Road. 

Premiere Night is Tuesday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. There is a $20 entry fee. The fundraising event runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Wednesday through Friday, which are Full Price Days.

A group of Bethlehem Steel company wives started the event in 1974, the website says.

Susan Lopez, St. Luke’s Director of Corporate Giving and Special Events, told Reporter Sydney Kay community members donate the vintage clothing, antiques, and other items for the event.

“It’s not your typical resale event,” she said.

Lopez said a dedicated group of retired Air Products workers helped set up the clothing racks and shelving for the fundraiser. They started their work early in April.

Volunteers go through thousands of pounds of clothing, shoes, and other items, Lopez said.

James Pepe, Development/Marketing Director for Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley, said his organization offers support programs and services to anyone impacted by a cancer diagnosis. It offers help through a variety of services, including support groups and individual counseling sessions.

The Boutique for Hope event is “massive” for his organization, Pepe said.

He said his group offers all its services free of charge. Since it does not receive government funding, Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley gets financial help from the community, he said.

Anyone wanting to learn more about Boutique for Hope can head to its website or Facebook page.