MILFORD, PA — Delaware Valley Action (DVA!) has opened the Free Store at its community engagement center, distributing a wide array of supplies for new parents and their families, as well as household essentials. 

These supplies are badly needed but often costly, a group spokesperson wrote.

“It’s evident that many members of our community are facing challenges in accessing essential items,” said DVA! board member Gretchen Pollack. 

DVA! promotes justice, respect, equality and constitutional rights.

Since the Free Store openend in mid-January, it has assisted individuals and families—both very young families and elderly neighbors, many of whom are caregivers for their grandchildren.  

“This is great,” said one visitor. “It will hold our family over until my husband’s next paycheck.”

Among the items distributed by the store are:

Hygiene essentials: menstrual products, diapers (both adult and infant), diaper wipes, diaper cream and baby powder. 

Household cleaning supplies: paper towels, trash bags, toilet paper, laundry detergent, shampoo, sponges and hand sanitizer; these serve as a lifeline for maintaining cleanliness and sanitation.

Items to help you stay warm and well: The extras, which make such a difference—items such as toothbrushes, mouthwash, baby socks, blankets made by high school students and mini first aid kits. 

All items have been donated by community members. Donations matter. Diapers, in particular, are a critical need for many families. Monetary contributions also help tremendously, ensuring the continuity and expansion of support programs. For information on how to contribute, visit www.tinyurl.com/2y3fjxh5.  

People are welcome to host activities and clubs—such as book or puzzle clubs, or seed exchanges—at the community engagement center. The space can be rented for events as well.

The Community Engagement Center is located at 315 Broad St. It is open by appointment and during designated drop-in days and hours: Monday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Friday, 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.; and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information on DVA! and its Community Engagement Center, email delawarevalleyaction@gmail.com.