An Ode to Rummage Sales

Written by: Kate Snyder, Development and Donor Communications Coordinator


There's something very comforting and ubiquitously American about church rummage sales. They're just so classic.


And, as it turns out, they can also be a perfect charitable operation. A well-planned rummage sale -- like the one held by Third Presbyterian Church a couple weeks ago -- can actually result in a trifecta of good deeds.


Good Thing #1
Church members get a bunch of unwanted stuff out of their homes and closets without those items winding up in a landfill.

Good Thing #2
Members of the community with limited income are provided a source of good-quality clothing and household goods at minimal cost.


Good Thing #3
The proceeds from the rummage sale can be donated to an organization like East End Cooperative Ministry, thereby benefiting the most vulnerable members of our community.


Third Presbyterian Church raised $1,000 from their rummage sale, which they designated for EECM's Orr Compassionate Care Center. The Orr Center provides a safe refuge for men and women (many of them homeless) to recover from illness or injury. Thanks to everyone who organized, donated, and shopped!

Partners in Philanthropy

Written by: Kate Snyder, Development and Donor Communications Coordinator

Hats off to a new group of friends of East End Cooperative Ministry -- the Pittsburgh Social Venture Partners. PSVP is a partnership of philanthropic-minded individuals who invest their time, expertise and capital in innovative nonprofits serving at-risk youth.

The PSVP team recently served dinner at EECM's Men's Emergency Shelter. Here are some reflections from one of the women who participated in that event.

“It was a pleasure being part of yesterday’s feeding the poor event. It opened my eyes to a new reality in Pittsburgh and USA. Living in a country, which is consider the richest country, still there are many men going to bed in shelters, depending on volunteers to feed them. I wished we had more food to feed them not only once but until they were satisfied.

It makes me thankful to the Lord God for his provisions in my life. What has opened your eyes lately?"

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Written by: Kate Snyder, Development and Donor Communications Coordinator

"It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood..."

When I start with that line, you immediately have a picture in mind, right? Friendly middle aged guy in a button up sweater... Ahhh. I heart Mr. Rogers (don't we all?).

Each spring, Pittsburgh honors Fred Rogers on "Won't You Be My Neighbor Day." Everyone is encouraged to don a favorite sweater and a variety of Pittsburgh organizations host events focused on the idea of what it means to be a neighbor.

This year, the Squirrel Hill Library organized a diaper drive to help out their neighbors unable to afford this basic baby necessity. The donated diapers made their way to East End Cooperative Ministry's Food Pantry. Thanks very much to everyone who participated. We like having you as our neighbors!