iHave iNeed Blossoms with Growth and Impact
Thank you for your much needed support of iHave iNeed. Your generosity and dedication are the driving force behind our mission to maximize sustainability and help those in need.
Progress Snapshot
- Volunteer Hours: A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated volunteers who contributed 185+ hours of their time since March. Their hands-on involvement in pickups, deliveries, and sorting is invaluable in ensuring that rescued items reach those who need them most.
- Items Rescued: Since our last update, we’ve helped rescue over 8,784 pounds of food and essential items, diverting them from landfills and into the hands of our community members. This includes a significant amount of bagels (1,680 lbs), bakery items (770 lbs), sandwiches (650 lbs), other food items (260 lbs), and clothing (625 lbs). Your support makes these rescues possible.
- Frequent Pickups: Our dedicated team and volunteers have been busy with 12+ pickups each and every week. Our consistent effort ensures a steady supply of resources for our charity partners and those they serve, as well as minimizing waste!
Season of Growth and Partnerships
- New Partnership: We are thrilled to announce our new partnership with Helping Harvest Food Bank who serves Berks and Schuylkill counties in Pennsylvania. This collaboration significantly expands our reach and impact, allowing us to facilitate additional large volume rescues outside of Lehigh County.
- TBJ Gourmet Rescue: Thanks to a partnership facilitated by iHave iNeed, TBJ Gourmet stepped up to combat food waste by donating an incredible 4,824 pounds of their delicious Deep South Tomato Jam to Helping Harvest Food Bank. This donation not only provides nutritious food but also highlights the importance of sustainable practices in our community.
- Via of the Lehigh Valley: Our partnership with Via of the Lehigh Valley continues to be a cornerstone of our success. Their dedicated volunteers and staff have been instrumental in our weekly pickups and deliveries, ensuring that rescued items reach those in need efficiently and effectively.
- Easter Sunday Donation: The generosity of Egypt Star Bakery shone brightly during the Spring holiday when they donated over 150 pounds of bread and pastries. We promptly delivered these treats to “Operation: Address the Homeless,” where they were enjoyed by those attending their holiday meal events.
- Surplus Program Success: Our surplus program continues to thrive, efficiently redistributing excess fruits,vegetables, bakery items, baby food, clothing, coats, and shoes from our partners to other charities in need. This ensures that valuable resources are utilized to their fullest potential, maximizing our impact on the community.
- Sanctuary at Haafsville: We understand the importance of caring for our furry friends. That’s why we were proud to deliver much-needed bedding to the Sanctuary at Haafsville Cat Adoption Center, ensuring a comfortable environment for their feline residents.
- St. Luke’s Half Marathon & 5k: This amazing event was not only a celebration of athleticism but also a testament to community spirit. We collected hundreds of pounds of clothing and shoes thanks to the generosity of runners and their supporters.
- Parkland High School Career Fair: We actively engaged with students and local businesses at this year’s Parkland High School Career Fair, sparking interest in our mission. Over 20 students expressed their desire to volunteer with iHave iNeed, showcasing the next generation’s commitment to community service.
- Northern Lehigh Food Bank: Some of our dedicated board members volunteered their time at the Northern Lehigh Food Bank’s holiday give-out in March, demonstrating our commitment to hands-on involvement in the community.
Volunteer Opportunities: Many Ways to Make a Difference
We offer a variety of ways for you to contribute to our mission and make a positive impact:
- Pickup and Delivery: Join our team of drivers to transport donated items, ensuring they reach their destination safely and efficiently.
- Business Connections: If you have connections with local businesses, help us establish partnerships for item donations. Your networking skills can make a significant difference.
- Monetary Donations: Your financial contributions are vital for covering operational costs, expanding our programs, and reaching more people in need. Every dollar counts!
- Join Our Board: If you have expertise in business strategy, fundraising, accounting, marketing, or other relevant fields, consider joining our board. Your leadership and skills can guide us towards even greater success.