It was recently announced that Penn Community Bank is pledging $40,000 to United Way of Bucks County in support of the nonprofit’s HELP Center. The contribution will ensure that the center can continue to meet growing needs in the community.
The HELP Center provides essentials like cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items and home goods — completely free of charge — to local families who are struggling financially. Since opening in March 2020, it has evolved to meet residents’ needs.
“The HELP Center has quickly become an essential resource in Bucks County,” said Marissa Christie, president and CEO of United Way of Bucks County. “We serve folks with all sorts of needs, from working families just struggling to get by to survivors of natural disasters. Currently, we’re helping Ukrainian refugees who have arrived here with virtually nothing. None of this would be possible without the support of partners like Penn Community Bank.”
HELP Center visits are increasing as families struggle to keep up with the cost of living amid growing inflation. The center recently opened a food pantry, adding a new service to meet the demand. Ninety-seven percent of HELP Center guests who come to shop for household items also use this pantry.
The HELP Center is a collaboration among three nonprofit agencies — United Way of Bucks County, Bucks County Opportunity Council and St. Mary Medical Center. Penn Community Bank provides financial support for the project. Visit uwbucks.org/helpcenter for more information.
