LightHouse Women & Children’s Center marked a new milestone Thursday with the ribbon cutting of its new playground at 715 N. Sixth Street in Reading. The celebration highlighted a space designed to bring joy, healing, and community to the women and children served through the center.
The new playground features poured-in-place rubber surfacing and equipment designed to be inclusive for children of all ages and abilities. During the event, LightHouse also introduced Alvernia University’s “Sanctuary in Color” Project, sponsored by the Berks County Community Foundation. The community art initiative was created with children from across Berks County and adds bright artwork throughout the playground and surrounding space.
“This playground represents more than play—it represents restoration, community, and the simple joy every child deserves,” said Kate Alley, Executive Director of LightHouse Women & Children’s Center. “We believe God delights in every laugh and smile shared here. Homelessness isolates and community heals.”
Hope Rescue Mission CEO Robert Turchi also recognized the community support behind the project.
“This playground is a testament to God’s goodness and our community’s compassion,” Turchi said. “Thank you to every donor whose generosity made this playground — and countless moments of joy — possible.”
LightHouse Women & Children’s Center is part of Hope Rescue Mission, a faith-based nonprofit founded in 1894. The organization serves more than 1,500 individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Berks County each year through shelter services, transitional housing, workforce development, and supportive programs.
More information about programs and services is available at www.HopeForReading.org.
