Evaluating worthy charities in Reading, PA, as you plan for donating or volunteering? Opportunity House is the premier organization for men, women, and families who are experiencing homelessness in the community, and we welcome contributions to aid in reducing homelessness in Berks County, PA.
Who We Are
Opportunity House provides a range of services to help the homeless population of the area, including emergency shelter, supportive housing, early childhood education services, a reuse/recycle program, and a retail thrift store. The ultimate purpose of all Opportunity House programs is to support and assist the homeless in overcoming challenges to achieving stable housing.
Ways to Donate
To deliver the services in our community, Opportunity House depends on the financial support of our community. Thanks to the many individuals, community groups, and corporations who volunteer by donating their time to Opportunity House, we fulfill our mission each year. Whether you donate to this worthy charity by volunteering to prepare and serve a meal, volunteer at an event, or share your skills and talents with our clients, your help impacts the lives of those who are homeless in our community.
Your financial support stays in the community and directly benefits those who are working toward returning to stable housing. Whether you give financially, donate your time or donate gently used items for our reuse/recycle program, your support is crucial to our mission Your help can have a powerful impact on the lives of others, and in doing so, you’ll gain a strong sense of fulfillment that just might surprise you.
Financial Giving
Click here to donate easily online. Your one-time or recurring gift will restore hope for homeless families in our area You can designate your gift as a lasting tribute in memory of a loved one, honor someone who has impacted you, celebrate life events like birthdays, anniversaries, the birth of a child, graduation, confirmation or any milestone Donations from organizations and corporations are always welcomed as they reflect their commitment to giving back to the community. As always, your donation can remain anonymous.
Fundraising Events
Whether you volunteer at the event or attend the event, you are supporting the mission of Opportunity House. Annual events include:
- Garden Party Celebration
- Souper Bowl
- Wine, Women, and Shoes
- Golf Event
Service Donations
If you cannot donate financially but find that your schedule allows you to give your time, Opportunity House welcomes your service. We have many needs, so volunteers are welcomed for a day of service, an ongoing volunteer opportunity, or a one-time project. We generally find a role that suits their skills, preferences, and time commitment.
- Prepare and Serve a Meal
- Join a Committee
- Participate in a Day of Service
- OppShop Volunteer
Item Donations
The Opportunity House shelter regularly provides clients with items when they arrive, and we welcome various donations of new, unused items all year long:
- Undergarments for men and women
- Undershirts
- Men’s and women’s underwear
- Sports bras
- Socks
- Toiletries
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothpaste and toothbrushes
- Hairbrushes and combs
- Soaps
- Lotions
- Nail Clippers
- Towels
- Washcloths
- Bed sheets
- Feminine hygiene products
- Bladder control products
- Cold weather clothing
- Coats
- Caps
- Gloves
- Long sleeve shirts
- Sweatshirts
- Sweatpants
- Yoga pants
- Winter boots
- Baby Items
- Diapers and wipes
- Bottles
- Bottled water – particularly during the summer
Gently used items donated to OppShop, the retail thrift store we operate, are also welcome. Bring donations to the drop-off center behind our store or one of the many drop-off bins in the area. You may also call for a pick-up service for bulky items like furniture. We request that you contact us to relay what you plan to donate. We accept items in saleable condition. While we are very appreciative of items you donate, getting rid of items that we can’t sell takes resources away from the mission.
For over 35 years, Opportunity House has served the homeless in our community. Thanks to the community who has generously donated to charities in Reading, PA we continue to thrive. With plenty of donating options, Opportunity House merits consideration as you choose among the charities in the Reading, PA, area for donations. Learn about Opportunity House by calling (610) 374-4696 or clicking here to volunteer.
