As we prepare our homes and hearts for the upcoming holidays, November brings attention to all we have. It also may make those with less feel it a bit more. As we plan celebrations, bountiful meals, and warm gatherings, Pottstown Regional Community Foundation (PRCF) reminds us some of the best ways to enjoy the season, and all of life, involve giving.
A Time to Remember
November is National Homelessness Awareness Month and National Homeless Youth Awareness Month, with a special week dedicated to hunger and homelessness prior to Thanksgiving. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) designated this time of year, when food and family are top of mind, to highlight these problems. As many fill their kitchens with everything needed for a celebratory meal, others (sometimes in the same neighborhood) struggle to afford the basics of food and shelter.
The juxtaposition between abundance and poverty can be surprising at times. Often, those with food and housing insecurities live alongside us. These issues are not solely the problems of faraway places. And they are not only problems for adults. Noteworthy is the need for specific awareness of youth home insecurity. As many as 2.5 million youth* per year experience homelessness, with their own unique and vicious cycle of resulting trauma.
When setting your dinner table, packing your child’s lunch, or turning up your thermostat, take a moment of gratitude. Take a moment to remember those in need. And, if possible, take action to help, however small.
How We Can Help
Organizations like those mentioned below help support individuals who face hunger and homelessness, living each day in fear of the next. We thrive on grants, collaboratives, and initiatives that allow us to make a life-changing difference for those who are struggling.
In our own community, there are several places always in need of food, clothing, and other necessities.
Consider these ways to support those in need:
Donate to a food pantry or holiday drive. Nonperishables like canned goods and boxed foods are ideal. However, during the holiday season, you often can donate entire dinners through collections at worship places, community venues, or offices. These may include frozen turkeys and prepared foods. One example is Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities, which is preparing 800 Thanksgiving dinner kits for those in need this season.
Several organizations always welcome donations, and often at a variety of locations: Coventry Food Bank, Chester County Food Bank, Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities, and Preston’s Pantry (part of Boyertown Area Multi-Service food access program). You will want to read about the origins of Preston’s Pantry, which began with an eight-year-old hero named Preston. Check with these locations for specific donation needs, which often include kitchen items like can openers, utensils, and other dining necessities. In addition to food assistance, some offer services for housing stability and expenses along with wellness programs.
Volunteer at a community kitchen. Make your own holiday meal more satisfying by serving others first. Donating an hour or two on-site before your own celebration can make a difference for neighbors who are alone and hungry. Beyond serving nutritional staples, giving your time and energy elevates the sense of community and holiday spirit for all involved.
Donate funds, gift cards, or clothing. Perhaps you have just enough time or resources to meet your own needs. Do you have outgrown clothing or unused toys and household items? Pantry items you no longer enjoy? Donate them now when they are most likely needed for warmth and a little joy. If you cannot find time, a gift card or monetary donation is always appreciated. Consider Pottstown Beacon of Hope, which offers safe shelter as well as meals and other services.
Support housing-focused resources. For individuals experiencing homelessness, all the essentials are needed: meals, clothing, toiletries, business attire for job interviews, and children’s staples. This exponentially expands donation opportunities for those ready to share. Here are some organizations where you can offer assistance:
Interfaith Hospitality Networks
Short on time? Please consider a donation to PRCF’s General Giving fund. Through research and community insight, your gift will be applied where it will have the most impact.
Get Friends Involved
One of the best ways to combat hunger and homelessness is through leading by example. Turn your donation bag into several boxes or even a van load by initiating clothing and food drives. A flyer or social media post can spread your request for support without awkwardness of in-person pressure. If colleagues, classmates, and your cycling buddies or book club members are able to donate, they will know you as a convenient resource.
When alerting others of your donation collection, be specific. Share how, where, and what to donate. Let them know which organization will be the recipient of their generosity. It adds meaning to their altruistic act, especially if the worthy cause is close to their hearts. Provide a deadline so you can plan your drop-off around the organization’s needs and your own schedule.
If you are interested in dedicating time this season to give back to the community, PRCF welcomes you to contact us. We support organizations like the Pottstown Area Food Collaborative, an equitable food system that fuels food banks such as those mentioned here. We proudly fund countless community initiatives to help Pottstown not only grow but thrive.
The development of our Thriving Communities Program is one of many steps we are taking to revitalize Pottstown, especially underserved areas. However, the outcome for that is years in the making. The homeless and hungry of our community need assistance now. And help begins with us as individuals.
If you or someone you know is experiencing hunger or homelessness, please share this article of resources.
