800 Chester County Families Treated To Holiday Of Hope Chest Gifts

DOWINGTOWN, PA — More than 800 Chester County families in need were treated to free day of shopping thanks to the Chester County Intermediate Unit Technical High Schools and Child and Career Development Center.

A total of $55,000 was raised to purchase goods for the Holiday of Hope Chest charity event at the three intermediate campus, Brandywine, Pennock’s Bridge, and Pickering Valley and the child center.

Nearly 300 intermediate unit volunteers devoted their time to wrap gifts for the families, set up the events and assist the shoppers.

Families in need were referred by community organizations and were given a voucher to shop at the store, which consists of new and gently used clothing, accessories, toys, electronics and books.

Patty Knecht, former director of the unit's practical nursing program, and her husband, Duane, are the founders of the event.

“The Holiday Hope Chest’s motto is community helping community, which was exceedingly evident this year,” Knecht said.

According to Dr. Susan Mateka, principal of the Child and Career Development Center, said the Holiday Hope Chest is important because it empowers parents and allows them to pick out their own gifts for their children rather than someone else just handing them donated gifts.

“My favorite part of the Holiday Hope Chester is knowing our students and families will have a happier holiday because they were able to put gifts under their tree," she said.