OppShop is hosting its first donation day for the year, on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
OppShop, the retail thrift store operated by Opportunity House, is sponsoring a Code Blue Donation Day on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The facility, located at 3045 5th Street Highway will accept donations at the rear of its retail store. It’s fast and easy to drop off items and the staff of OppShop will help customers unload items from their vehicles.
With the opening of the short-term housing program and the increase in requests for shelter during the winter months, Opportunity House has an immediate need for clothing and household items. Clients receive vouchers to shop for clothing when they arrive at the shelter. Men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing and shoes are always needed.
While clients stay at Opportunity House, they create a plan to become stably housed. The case managers collaborate with clients to identify the items they need when they secure permanent housing. Many families are starting over and need everything from bedroom furniture and kitchen sets to items like pots and pans, dishes, silverware, cookware, bakeware, bedding, lamps, and small appliances. Each client has unique needs and having a selection of items ensures items are available when they are needed.
By collecting these items, Opportunity House hopes to exceed its 2023 goal of 1,041,000 pounds of material diverted from landfills. The Berks County community plays a pivotal role by repurposing, reusing, and recycling items they no longer need. Bins located throughout Berks County make it easy for residents to donate items in their neighborhood. Donors appreciate that all donations stay in Berks County to help those in need in our community.
This year, Opportunity House celebrates its 40th anniversary and continues to be the community’s primary resource providing emergency shelter to over 500 clients each year. Our goal is to stabilize individuals and families and help them find permanent housing.
Opportunity House is a Keystone 4-star Early Childhood Learning Center with programs for newborns, preschool, and after-school programs. The Pre-K Counts program ensures that every child meets the requirements for kindergarten. Over 125 families benefit from the program by providing quality daycare to low-income families, allowing parents to work, and providing economic stability for their families.
Opportunity House provides housing for over 100 clients through their transitional and permanent housing programs. These programs offer long-term support as part of the extended Opportunity House community.
