Opportunity House will be collecting items to support local families in need in Berks County through its fill-the-truck event on Nov. 15.
The collection, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Raymour and Flanigan Furniture, 629 Snyder Road, Ontlaunee Township, will help replenish supplies for Opportunity House, including food, clothing and household items to help families as they work to rebuild their lives.
Officials said there is an increased urgency this year because funding that sustains food assistance and shelter programs was disrupted during the federal government shutdown and the 4-month-long Pennsylvania budget impasse.
“Our food pantry here at Opportunity House and at Beacon House are both running critically low,” Alyssa Bushkie, CEO of Opportunity House, said in a release. “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.”
Opportunity House Fill-The-Truck
Community members are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items — including canned goods, beans, pasta, cereal and juice — as well as gently used furniture, clothing and household items.
What began as a furniture donation event quickly expanded as the need increased, officials said.
Raymour and Flanigan wanted to expand it to care for those who are struggling to put food on the table, officials said. 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.
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.
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 community.