A Guide to Making a Difference Introduction: Giving Tuesday is a global day of charitable giving that encourages people to give back to their communities and support causes they are passionate about. Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) is continuing our work to close the door on hunger and homelessness, and we hope you’ll consider supporting us this Giving Tuesday. We are dedicated to addressing the challenges of food and housing insecurity, and providing affordable housing solutions, and rely on community support to carry out our mission. This Giving Tuesday, consider one of these ways to contribute to help give back to our community and support BCHG: Monetary Donations:One of the most direct ways to support BCHG is through monetary donations. Your financial contributions can go a long way in helping us provide shelter, food, and essential services to individuals and families facing homelessness. Visit our Giving Tuesday page to make a secure online donation, donate via Paypal, or fill out this form to set up a recurring donation to provide ongoing support. You can also support us by buying our merchandise! Fundraising Campaigns:Consider organizing a fundraising campaign within your community or workplace to raise awareness and funds for BCHG. You could host a neighborhood event, set up crowdfunding pages, or collaborate with local businesses to create donation drives. Get creative and involve others in the process to maximize the impact of your fundraising efforts. Need our support? Email info@bchg.org! Volunteer Your Time:If you have the time and skills to spare, consider volunteering with BCHG. We often need volunteers for various tasks, such as assisting with food distribution, helping in our community gardens, or providing support at our office. Volunteering is a hands-on way to make a direct impact and connect with the community you’re helping. To get started, visit our volunteer page. In-Kind Donations:We welcome in-kind donations of essential items. This could include non-perishable food items, clothing, hygiene products, and household supplies. You can view our current list of needed food items here, and check out our Amazon Wishlist for the most up-to-date needs of our housing program units and families. Spread the Word:Help amplify our mission by spreading the word on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Share our posts, upcoming events, and initiatives on your page or story. Encourage your friends, family, and followers to get involved and support us on Giving Tuesday! Use the hashtags #GivingTuesday, #GT2023, and #GivingTuesday2023 to increase the visibility of your posts and inspire others to join the cause. Corporate Sponsorship:If you represent a business, explore the possibility of corporate sponsorship for BCHG. This can involve financial support, in-kind donations, or even collaboration on community initiatives. Corporate partnerships can significantly boost our resources and enable us to expand our impact. If you’re interested in becoming a corporate partner, email amcgill@bchg.org for more information. Conclusion: This Giving Tuesday, make a meaningful contribution to Bucks County Housing Group and play a role in addressing homelessness and housing challenges in your community. Whether through financial support, volunteerism, or spreading awareness, your efforts can make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Join the movement and be a part of positive change in Bucks County.
How Your Support Transforms Lives at Bucks County Housing Group At Bucks County Housing Group, we’re excited to share with you the incredible impact of your generous donations. Your support has been pivotal in changing lives, and we want to give you a glimpse of how we put your donations to work and how they are making a tangible difference in our community. 1. Filling Plates and Hearts: The Food Program Your support has ensured that no one in our community goes to bed hungry. With your help, we’ve been able to purchase nutritious food to sustain our food program, providing a lifeline for individuals and families facing food insecurity. Your generosity goes beyond filling plates; it fills hearts with hope. We’re able to leverage your donations to fill our pantries with healthy produce, pantry staples, and allergen-friendly options. 2. Turning Houses into Homes: Essential Household Supplies Imagine starting anew with nothing but the clothes on your back. Your donations have made it possible for us to provide clients in our housing program with essential household supplies to get them started as they stabilize. From toiletries to bedding and kitchenware, your contributions empower individuals and families to transform their living situations, turning houses into comfortable homes. Additionally, our Apartment Partners program provides essential furniture and unforeseen expense help to our client families. 3. Play and Laughter for Children: A New Playset and More Our youngest clients have reason to smile, thanks to your donations at work. We installed a new playset for children within our housing program thanks to a generous fundraiser from our community, bringing joy and laughter to their lives. This small act has had a significant impact, offering a sense of normalcy during challenging times. In addition, your support has provided supplies for our community building program to host holiday parties, homework help, and community days to aid in bringing a sense of camaraderie and support among our housing clients. 4. Cultivating Hope through Community Gardens Gardens are places of growth, not just for plants but for people too. Your support has allowed us to provide seeds and materials for our community gardens, enabling clients to cultivate fresh produce and gain valuable skills. Because of your help, our gardens nourish both bodies and spirits while fostering a sense of community and empowerment. 5. Beyond the Examples: A Broader Impact Your support extends far beyond the specific examples mentioned. Because of your support, we have been able to provide shelter, offer case management services, and host educational workshops. These services are instrumental in helping our clients find stable housing, overcome challenges, and work toward self-sufficiency. The Ripple Effect: How Your Donations Transform Lives The impact of your generosity goes beyond immediate assistance; we put your donations to work to make lasting changes in Bucks County and our clients’ lives. Clients who receive support during difficult times are better equipped to tackle challenges and work towards self-sufficiency. Your contributions fill them with hope and empowerment, impacting every aspect of their lives and creating a brighter future for them and their families. In closing, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering commitment to our mission. Your support, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or advocacy, is truly making a difference. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more vibrant community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. As we continue this journey of transformation, we look forward to the positive changes your kindness and compassion will bring. Thank you for being a vital part of this life-changing work.
Introduction Have you been wondering “What are volunteer opportunities near me?” or “How can I get involved in my community?” Look no further! Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG) is working steadfastly to close the door on hunger and homelessness. Our mission depends on the invaluable contributions and support from individuals like you, who want to make a difference in their community. In this blog, we will shed light on how you can get involved with BCHG and play a pivotal role in turning our shared vision into reality. Understanding BCHG Before embarking on your journey of involvement, we encourage you to delve into the heart of Bucks County Housing Group. Explore our website, familiarize yourself with the needs in our area, peruse our social media, and acquaint yourself with our diverse range of services. This foundational knowledge will empower you to engage effectively and align with our vision. Volunteer Opportunities BCHG operates on the dedication and passion of volunteers who are the backbone of our organization. Volunteering offers an opportunity to directly contribute to our mission. Here are some of the volunteer opportunities you can explore: a. Food Pantries: Lend your time and compassion to our food pantries, where you can provide crucial support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. b. Community Gardens: Make a tangible impact by volunteering at one of our community garden locations, helping individuals access and grow fresh produce. c. Administrative Assistance: Offer your skills in areas like data entry or office management to help facilitate the smooth operation of BCHG. d. Other Opportunities: We are always looking for ways that community members can contribute their skillsets to our mission. If you have an idea for a volunteer partnership, let us know! Financial Contributions If your schedule doesn’t permit regular volunteering, we invite you to consider making a financial contribution. Your donation significantly supports BCHG’s programs and services. We offer various giving options, including one-time donations, monthly contributions, and support for specific fundraising campaigns. Advocacy Amplify your voice in support of food security and housing issues in Bucks County. Advocate for initiatives that address the root causes of homelessness and endorse affordable housing solutions. Attend community meetings and become a voice for change in Bucks County. Organize a Fundraiser or Drive Harness your community spirit by organizing a fundraiser or donation drive within your network. Events like food drives, cleaning supply drives, and group fundraising can raise both awareness and resources for BCHG, making a considerable difference. Questions about holding a drive? Email amcgill@bchg.org. Spread the Word Help BCHG’s mission reach new heights by promoting it on social media, within your local community, and among friends and family. Sharing our success stories, events, and volunteer opportunities can draw more support and volunteers to our cause. Conclusion Bucks County Housing Group stands as a beacon of hope in addressing hunger and homelessness in Bucks County. Your involvement through volunteering, donations, advocacy, or event organization is invaluable to our mission. Every action, no matter how small, creates a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of those in need. Join us today and be a part of the solution with BCHG, for together, we create a stronger and more compassionate community. Written by: Amanda McGill
Introduction Cheers to making a difference! In a heartwarming collaboration between community and craft beer, our first annual Pints for a Purpose fundraiser was a great success, creating a delightful blend of charity and camaraderie. This event brought together beer enthusiasts, philanthropists, and local businesses all with a shared mission of supporting the Bucks County Housing Group (BCHG). With its unique combination of craft brews, live entertainment, and a worthy cause, Pints for a Purpose demonstrated the true essence of community spirit and giving back! BCHG and Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company: A Hub of Community Support Nestled in Croydon, Pennsylvania, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company is renowned for its innovative craft beers and its strong sense of community engagement. The brewery, founded by Steve Capelli and Jermey Myers, has become more than just a local favorite; it has evolved into a gathering place that fosters connections among neighbors and beyond. With a commitment to giving back, the brewery partnered with us here at BCHG to help us in our fight against hunger and homelessness. Their dedication to being socially responsible and working with us to make Bucks County a better community for all is truly inspiring! Pints for a Purpose: An Unforgettable Fundraiser Our Pints for a Purpose fundraiser was an exciting affair, attracting beer enthusiasts, community advocates, and philanthropists from all walks of life. The event offered a fantastic opportunity to savor a diverse array of craft beers while contributing to a noble cause. Guests were treated to a variety of Neshaminy Creek’s finest brews, including their new collaboration beers with Rita’s water ice, ensuring there was something to suit every palate. The brewery’s passionate and knowledgeable staff were on hand to guide attendees through the beer selection, making the experience all the more enjoyable. To enhance the ambiance, live entertainment was provided, featuring local musicians and performers who graciously donated their time and talent to support the cause, as well as a yoga hour by SEVA Yoga. Additionally, several local businesses brought their wares to the brewhouse to provide an immersive shopping experience for attendees. The energy and enthusiasm in the air were palpable as attendees reveled in the festivities while knowing that their presence and contributions were making a tangible difference. Making a Difference Together Thanks to the collective efforts of the attendees, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company, and BCHG, our Pints for a Purpose fundraiser turned out to be a remarkable success. The funds raised during the event will undoubtedly go a long way in furthering our mission of providing shelter, food, and support to those experiencing housing challenges in the community. Furthermore, Pints for a Purpose exemplified the power of community support and how local businesses like Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company can use their platform to create a positive impact. Such initiatives inspire others to come together for the greater good, fostering a culture of giving that extends far beyond a single event. Conclusion Pints for a Purpose was more than just an evening of beer tasting and entertainment. It was a celebration of compassion, community, and coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. The event showcased the immense power that businesses and individuals have when they unite for a worthy cause. The partnership between Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company and the Bucks County Housing Group demonstrated that philanthropy can be both enjoyable and impactful. As we raise our glasses to toast the success of Pints for a Purpose, let us also raise our awareness and support for ending hunger and homelessness in Bucks County. Together, we can make a lasting difference and create a community where everyone has a place to call home. Written By: Amanda McGill
Bucks County is often seen as an affluent area, but the reality is that there are many families and individuals who struggle with food insecurity and homelessness. At Bucks County Housing Group, we are committed to addressing these critical issues and making a difference in the lives of those in our community. Food Insecurity: Food insecurity is defined by the United States Department of Agriculture as the lack of access, at times, to enough food for an active, healthy life. There are about 45,970 food-insecure individuals in Bucks County, including 11,130 children. (Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap: 2020) The struggle to afford healthy and nutritious food can lead to health problems and other challenges. At our organization, we believe that access to healthy food is a fundamental human right. That’s why our food program is committed to providing fresh, healthy food to all of Bucks County. Our food program provides fresh produce, dairy, meat, and non-perishable items to families and individuals struggling to put food on the table. Our mobile markets bring food where it’s needed most in the county, meeting the most vulnerable populations where they’re at to ensure their access to fresh food. Our community garden program enables clients to grow their own food, moving them closer to food sovereignty and providing them with direct access to healthy produce. Housing: Homelessness is another critical issue in Bucks County. Many families are struggling to find affordable housing, and some are even living in cars or on the streets. At our organization, we believe that everyone deserves a safe and stable place to call home. We offer a range of housing programs to help families and individuals experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. These programs include emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. We also provide case management services and support to help families and individuals get back on their feet. How You Can Help: Our work is only possible with the support of our community. There are many ways you can get involved and help make a difference in the lives of those we serve: Donate: Your financial contributions help us to provide food, housing, and other critical services to those in need. Volunteer: We rely on volunteers to help us with everything from serving meals to sorting donations. Your time and talents can make a real difference. Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about food insecurity and homelessness in Bucks County. Share our message with your friends, family, and social networks. Together, we can fight food insecurity and homelessness in Bucks County. By working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it the most. Thank you for your support!
Examining the Impact of Food Insecurity in Bucks County Written By: Amanda McGill Food insecurity is defined by the United States Department of Agriculture as the lack of regular access to enough food for an active, healthy life. In Bucks County, food insecurity is a critical issue impacting 45,970 people (Feeding America), including those who are unemployed, underemployed, or living in poverty. Feeding America also found that food insecurity is higher in Bucks County than in its neighboring Montgomery and Chester counties. The importance of food security cannot be overstated, it has significant impacts on the health and well-being of individuals and families, the local economy, and the community. One of the key reasons why food insecurity is so important in Bucks County is because of how invisible it can be in what is often considered an affluent area. According to Feeding America, 7.4% of the population in Bucks County is food insecure, and 8.7% of children in the county are food insecure. This means that many individuals and families in the area struggle to afford healthy food and may have to skip meals or rely on low-nutrient, high-calorie options. Food insecurity has numerous negative health impacts, including an increased risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It can also lead to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety, as well as reduced cognitive function and academic performance in children. (National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities) In addition to the health impacts, food insecurity has several economic consequences. When individuals and families are unable to access healthy food, they may incur higher healthcare costs due to diet-related illnesses or disabilities. This can lead to decreased productivity, inability to work, and increased healthcare spending. These may result in diminished wages and earning potential, harming the local economy and the individual’s quality of life. (American Action Forum) In addition, food-insecure children are more likely to have performance issues in school, potentially harming their earning potential later in life. (Drexel University) Furthermore, food insecurity is often related to food deserts, where communities lack regular access to healthy and affordable food options. (Michigan State University) This can perpetuate the cycle of poverty and food insecurity, making it more difficult for individuals and families to break out of the cycle. Without the ability to make healthy, nutritious choices for themselves, these individuals become reliant on low-nutrient, high-calorie foods to keep themselves from going hungry. Finally, rising food costs have pushed food-secure individuals living on the edge down into food insecurity. In our food programs, we have observed double the number of patrons in summer 2022 compared to an average year. This coincides with a spike in inflation impacting the grocery bills of our community. Also, as extra SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits ended in March 2023, we expanded our Mobile Market programming and distributions to meet the anticipated rise in need from those on the brink of food insecurity. It is essential that Bucks County takes action to address food insecurity now and ensure that all residents have access to healthy and affordable food. Our food program works to move our community towards total food security and food sovereignty by providing healthy food, educational tools, and community gardening. With such significant impacts on the health and well-being of individuals and families, the local economy, and the community, now is the time for Bucks County to act to ensure that our neighbors can access fresh and healthy food. By working together, we can ensure that all residents reach food security, and improve the overall quality of life in Bucks County.