Neighbors Helping Neighbors: How We Can Make a Difference This Season and Throughout the Year

This season is a reminder that small acts of kindness can have a real impact. Whether it’s checking in on an elderly neighbor, donating food or warm clothing, or volunteering your time, there are many ways to help people in need right here in our local communities.

︎ The map and info below highlight donation and volunteer organizations in Berks, Lehigh, Lancaster, Montgomery, and Schuylkill counties.

 

Across Berks County, organizations like Helping Harvest work year-round to distribute food to families and individuals facing food insecurity in Berks and Schuylkill counties. Donations and volunteers help keep food pantries stocked and distribution programs running. In Reading, Opportunity House provides shelter and support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The United Way of Berks County Volunteer Center connects people with meaningful volunteer opportunities throughout the county.Local food pantries play a critical role in supporting neighbors close to home. Trinity BFC Food Pantry in Blandon, Schuylkill Valley Food Pantry in Leesport, and Honey Brook Food Pantry  all serve local families and rely on donated goods and volunteer help. Many of these pantries can also be found through regional directories such as Helping Harvest’s pantry locator or PA 211 East, which helps residents find food, housing, and social services by ZIP code.

Community service organizations such as Friend, Inc. in the Kutztown area and New Journey Community Outreach in Reading provide a range of support services for individuals and families, from food assistance to outreach programs, and welcome both donations and volunteers.

In the Lehigh Valley, Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania and the Allentown Area Ecumenical Food Bank are essential resources for fighting hunger across the region. Shelters such as the Allentown Rescue Mission and Sixth Street Shelter provide meals, shelter, and support services for those experiencing homelessness.Those looking to give time to others can explore opportunities through the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley or support youth and family initiatives through Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley.

Beyond organized programs, one of the simplest and most meaningful actions is to check in on elderly neighbors, especially those living alone. A quick phone call, a visit, or an offer to help with errands can make a significant difference, particularly during colder months.

Whether you choose to donate food, clothing, musical instruments, or your time, every contribution matters. If you’re not sure where to start, the map above and resources like PA 211 East can help you find local organizations and programs serving Berks, Lehigh, Lancaster, Montgomery, and Schuylkill counties.

Together, by supporting local organizations and looking out for one another, we can help strengthen our communities and ensure that no neighbor is forgotten.