New Community Organization Aims to Help All in Need

Clover Kinkopf is creating the legacy her late son never had a chance to build through a new organization bearing his name—Marquinn’s Community Angels.

Now in the beginning stages, the new nonprofit organization aims to help those in need in any way it can, whether it means supplying dish and laundry soap, food donations, home goods and more.

“Our mission is to specifically supply physical needs to alleviate stress on families through clothing, furniture and household items, including toiletries and detergents—anything that you could struggle to supply in the home,” Kinkopf of Wilkins Township said.

Marquinn’s Community Angels is based in Wilkins, but will focus on giving aid to those who need it throughout the Woodland Hills School District communities. No one will be turned away, she said.

When people come in for help, they will be listed on a three color code system of a donation amount. The standard cost for someone to gain a bundle of items is $10 per person.

“That helps to keep the supplies up and helps the organization to thrive,” she said.

With that $10, those who need help will be able to walk away with a bed, garments, dishware or something else they might need.

“When someone comes in with a need, they sit down and discuss that with the organization,” Kinkopf said. “They might need physical items for growth for the future or a mentor or job resources—you might come in and need a basinette and supplies for a new child.”

The organization grew out of an effort to help two employees from the Edgewood Taco Bell, where Kinkopf is a manager, whose Homewood house burnt down. The efforts of Marquinn’s Community Angels started three months ago.

“We re-established their house with furniture, clothing, dishware and miscellaneous items, along with school supplies,” she said. “Eight kids were in that home and needed help. We gave a bathroom set, toaster oven, microwaves.”

The initial days of the organization began by placing donation canisters in Taco Bell locations throughout the Pittsburgh region. A Girls Scout troop in New Kensington also got involved by collecting clothing, toys and other goods for the family.

Darla Hill of Munhall said her daughter has received help from Marquinn’s Community Angels as well. Hill is now helping Kinkopf develop the organization.

“I think it’s a part of my healing process to give back to the community,” Hill said. “It’s evolving into something new—in needing to help myself and my family, I am helping others.”

A key part of the mission is never turning anyone away.

“I think the point is that there are a lot of families out there who don’t get help, so we will not close the door on anyone,” Hill said. “We want to build a community that can thrive together on each other’s support.”

Hill went on to say that through the help her own family has received, she felt the need to give back even more.

“When you’re at your lowest, God is at his highest, and he shows up in those situations,” she said. “He placed it on both of our hearts that we can help other people. It’s something that is always needed for families. Everyone doesn’t come from a six figure home and it’s all walks of life. To help others is a blessing.”

Marquinn’s Community Angels is currently collecting shoes through a drive in conjunction with Pressley Ridge. Donations are being taken at Taco Bell and KFC restaurants.

For more information or to get involved, email Kinkopf at mca_clover@hotmail.com.