The Penn State Berks fourth annual Camp Out for Hunger event was a huge success, raising a total of $1,679.45 and collecting 333.6 pounds of nonperishable goods for the Berks Coalition to End Homelessness. The event, held on Friday, April 19, 2013, was designed to bring awareness to homelessness in Berks County.
Due to inclement weather, students were forced to camp inside, but the weather did not dampen their enthusiasm. The college hosted this fundraising project in conjunction with the Coalition to End Homelessness in Berks County. Members of the Coalition were in attendance to commemorate the event.
"Four years ago, national statistics showed that Berks County, specifically the Reading area, had one of the highest populations of citizens who were homeless or living below the poverty line. Students at Penn State Berks were troubled by these statistics and wanted to help," explains Student Activities Coordinator Kelli Meyer.
"In its fourth year, the Penn State Berks Camp Out for Hunger event raises awareness, along with money, and collects non-perishable goods for the Berks Coalition to End Homelessness. The Coalition consists of over 60 local businesses and organizations, including the Berks Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and the United Way, that have joined forces to fight for this cause."
Last year, the event raised $515 from the campus community and local businesses and collected 267 pounds of nonperishable goods. This year?s event has more than tripled the amount raised and increased the food donation by more than 60 pounds. All proceeds will go to the Coalition to disburse among the associated organizations.
For more information, contact Kelli Meyer, Student Activities Coordinator, at 610-396-6068 or via e-mail at [email protected]