In My Own Words is a chance to hear from our clients how Opportunity House has impacted their lives. They share their journey from homelessness to becoming stably housed. Each journey is as unique as the individual we serve. They share with us why they are grateful for the ongoing support they received at Opportunity House.
My name is Lonnie and I was born and raised in Reading, Pennsylvania. Opportunity House Emergency Shelter has my full and enthusiastic support to help and empower the people of the community. The Opportunity House Emergency Shelter helped me obtain my first apartment and not only that, they remodeled the Beacon House at 821 Schuylkill Ave, Reading, PA. It’s very beautiful and nice place to live. They help people. We need more Opportunity Houses around the world like the ones here in Reading, Pennsylvania. It’s a wonderful place and wonderful people help them keep helping the community as it has been doing since 1984. Opportunity House is for people and it’s awesome. Thank you.
To be a part of making a difference in the lives of others like Lonnie, please donate here
About Opportunity House Emergency Shelter
Each year 500+ men, women, children, and Veterans will turn to Opportunity House for emergency shelter in Reading, Pennsylvania. In addition to providing emergency shelter, Opportunity House provides permanent housing to clients who have experienced homelessness. Beacon House is a residential apartment building that is operated by Opportunity House. We provide ongoing support and case management to clients who have experienced homelessness and ensure their long-term success.
Each apartment at Beacon House was recently updated with new kitchens, bathrooms, and a fresh coat of paint. These updated apartments create a sense of pride and ownership for people who have experienced homelessness.
In addition to emergency shelter and permanent housing, Opportunity House provides Keystone 4-Star quality childcare for over 200 children each year from ages 6 weeks to 13 years old. Programs include Pre-K Counts, preschool, and wrap-around programs. Each summer children attend summer camp to experience year-round learning and prevent the summer slump. Parents appreciate the quality educational program as they work or go to school to improve their lives. Nearly 95% of the students enrolled in the program are subsidized, providing high-quality care to working families in our community.
Our Reuse & Recycle Program provides job training and jobs for people in our community. OppShop, our retail thrift store provides affordable clothing, housewares, and furniture to people in the greater Reading area. Through this program, we divert 1,000,000 pounds of material from our landfills.