To support local families in need, the Rudden Family Foundation is hosting a Free Essentials Fair this weekend at the Chiarelli Plaza Parking Garage.
Held on the 2nd floor of the parking garage, the Free Essentials Fair offers a wide variety of items including clothing, bedding, furniture, books, housewares, school supplies, and toys. Hours are Saturday 8-4pm and Sunday 9-2pm.
Founded in 2012, the Rudden Family Foundation works to fight poverty and serve people struggling to escape poverty. “We work with about 20 local partners” said John Rudden of the Rudden Foundation.
“They send us clients, who are off the street or out of a shelter. Once they have a place to live they may be sleeping on the floor. We basically outfit their whole apartment, from clothing to bedding”.
Due to COVID-19, the number of donations the foundation has received “expended” in the past few months. With a decline in clients, and a warehouse full, the foundation decided to partner with the Reading Parking Authority to host a special weekend long event to support Reading residents.