More than 20% of our neighbors in Northumberland live at or below the poverty level – 56% higher than the state average. 10% of our neighbors in Lancaster live at or below the poverty level. Many people who find themselves living in poverty often come from diverse backgrounds and possess unique issues that contribute to their poverty. These individuals and families include elderly persons on limited incomes or struggling with limited mobility or health issues; people with mental and physical disabilities; youth and adults recovering from substance abuse; and the working poor. There are many factors to consider when considering monthly budgets – rent, health care, schooling for children, and employment. Sadly, that often means that our neighbors living at or below the poverty level don’t have the time or resources to invest in essential household items such as mattresses, bedding, kitchen appliances and necessities, furniture, and more. These items not only help families function successfully, but they provide a sense of dignity and self-worth. These are vital when families or individuals are overcoming crisis and working toward self-sufficiency.

Each year our warehouse serves about 400-600 families and individuals living in Northumberland and Lancaster. We are able to achieve this by collecting donations of new to gently used furniture and household goods from generous community members, businesses, and churches. We fill our warehouse with these items to create a showroom for our neighbors in need to “shop” for the items they need. Furniture and household goods are given based on need and inventory available at the time. Each family and person who “shops” at our warehouse must first be vetted to ensure we are serving those who it the most.

When families and individuals are overcoming a crisis, they are vulnerable to experiencing another crisis. Having basic needs met allows them to focus on their challenging road to stability. A good night’s sleep, affordable healthy meals, and a place to gather with family are important moments made possible through Interfaith Service Council. We know the tangible support we offer changes lives. And for that, we are grateful to our community members who are able to support us through furniture and household goods donations to stock our warehouse, financial donations, and the time commitment from our volunteers.