Free shopping event in New Kensington provides holiday goodies for those in need
April Bontempo of Arnold left her house Saturday morning intent on just buying dog food.
She returned home with much more, thanks to the generosity of a regional nonprofit dedicated to providing freebies to anyone in need.
Bontempo stumbled upon the Cuddles For Kids Annual Holiday Pop-Up Free Store at Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in New Kensington with her daughter, Destiny. She chatted up Pastor Darryl Johnson, who was stationed on the sidewalk inviting folks inside for free toys, gifts, winter weather gear and more.
The event required no registration or requirements.
Cuddles for Kids was founded in 2006 by then 9-year-old Conner Hagins.
The organization collects school supplies, hygiene products, toys, stuffed animals, games, arts and crafts supplies and more to help brighten the lives of others, with a goal of providing endless smiles.
The Bontempos left laden with bags filled with foods, arts and crafts supplies and toys that included a new NFL football.
“It’s nice what they’re doing. I felt comfortable, too, because it’s in a church. I bet I have $200 worth of free stuff,” Bontempo said.
The annual event, co-sponsored by Highmark Wholecare, offered free shopping for anyone who walked in the door, along with snacks that included homemade chicken noodle soup, chili and wedding soup, cookies and drinks.
“It’s just about bringing everyone together,” Johnson said. “We’re doing it to just try and help each other out. It’s what the Lord calls us to do. We’re supposed to have an outreach to let people know that they’re thought about.
”Sometimes, people feel like they’re forgotten during the holidays, but we want them to know God loves them.”
Cuddles for Kids Vice President Tiffany Booker said the event, in its third year in New Kensington, serves more than 100 children.
“They shop for different things for their holiday season needs and it’s all free .”
Cuddles for Kids is based in Johnstown and will top 1 million in donations this year.
Healthy snacks and drinks were provided by co-sponsor Highmark Wholecare.
About 20 volunteers were on hand during the two-hour event to ensure a smooth shopping process.
“The feedback is wonderful. I think it’s great and helps people get in the holiday spirit. It’s great to see the kids shop for themselves or grandparents come in and shop for their grandkids,” said Highmark Wholecare senior community engagement specialist Jennifer Spratt.
The event has grown annually, with attendance up by more than 40 people this year, said Booker.
“We try to help anybody in need, anytime, no questions asked,” Booker said. “It’s all about giving back.”
The event will return to New Kensington next year.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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