A convoy of hope embarked for Hope Rescue Mission

A convoy of hope traveled west on Penn Avenue last Tuesday afternoon, headed for the Oscar Daniels Warehouse in Sinking Spring.

A rapid plan of action was set in motion at the urgency of Manor at Market Square Executive Director Kaitlin Nagle. She received a call from Hope Rescue Mission. The nonprofit organization that helps make a difference in the lives of those facing homelessness in the area was in critical need of clothing and other essential items.

“We are always looking for opportunities to engage our residents in the greater community and give back through community involvement and events,” Nagle said.

Aboard three shuttle buses that included Manor at Market Square in Reading and its sister communities, Chestnut Knoll in Boyertown, and Keystone Villa at Douglassville, carried donations of gently used men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, new undergarments, and other much-needed items.

Director of Hope Thrift Distributors, Diane Schenk, said, “Thank you so much for your support in our work! We look forward to your next clothing drive for the Mission and LightHouse!”

The senior living communities, managed by Heritage Senior Living LLC, held a communitywide donation drive that yielded support from staff, residents, and their families.

“I am very proud of our communities, which pulled together to meet the urgent need of the Hope Rescue Mission. Manor at Market Square, Chestnut Knoll, and Keystone Villa at Douglassville, independent living and personal care, all did a tremendous job organizing a drive to give back to the greater community,” Shawn Brandt, regional director of operations for Heritage Senior Living LLC, said.

A few residents and staff also joined the journey to the warehouse to lend a helping hand with the delivery.

“Everyone worked together to collect clothing for those in need. It feels good to be able to give back to the community,” Chestnut Knoll resident Ernie Knechel said.