(Credit: Facebook)
A Lansdale-based nonprofit dedicated to helping neighbors in need brought smiles to dozens of families this holiday season through its annual Christmas toy drive
A Lansdale-based nonprofit dedicated to helping neighbors in need brought smiles to dozens of families this holiday season through its annual Christmas toy drive.
Linda and Friends Helping Hands, a 501(c)(3) charity founded by Lansdale resident Linda Rowland, recently hosted its third annual Christmas Toy Drive at Lansdale VFW Post 32, located at 805 W. Second St.
The Dec. 6 event supported underprivileged and homeless families and youth in the Lansdale area, continuing the organization’s grassroots tradition of meeting immediate needs while building long-term stability.
Community members were invited to donate toys, with collection boxes placed at businesses throughout the region, including the VFW, Wimberly Spanish Food & Pizza, The Little Gym of Hatfield, Bergey’s Ford of Lansdale, Giuliano’s Market & Deli, the German American Social Club, Poppy’s Tavern, and Indian Valley Scuba in Harleysville.
On the day of the event, volunteers helped load and wrap gifts, assisted parents, and ensured the toys were distributed smoothly to families.
Founded in 2020, Linda and Friends Helping Hands grew out of Rowland’s hands-on efforts to feed, clothe, and support individuals experiencing homelessness in Lansdale. The organization focuses on addressing urgent needs — such as food, clothing, tents, sleeping bags, and toiletries — while also guiding individuals toward resources that promote long-term self-sufficiency. Its broader goal is to help secure housing so people can stabilize their lives and work toward employment, benefits, and permanent solutions.
Since becoming a registered nonprofit in Pennsylvania and receiving federal charity status, Linda and Friends Helping Hands has expanded its reach. The group has provided hotel stays for women during winter months, delivered regular hot meals to approximately a dozen unhoused individuals during low-resource nights, helped multiple people secure permanent housing and employment, and assisted others in accessing food assistance, medical care, and educational opportunities.
Donations made on or after Feb. 21, 2024, are tax-deductible.
The organization is led by a volunteer board of directors that includes Linda Rowland, president and chair; Jude Sweeney, treasurer; Glenn Rowland; Renee Armstead; Michelle McNally; Paul Manoogian; and Don Gallagher.
Community members interested in supporting Linda and Friends Helping Hands can contribute in several ways. The nonprofit welcomes meal donations through its Meal Train program, which provides home-cooked or catered meals for unhoused individuals. Supporters can also purchase needed items through the organization’s Amazon wishlist or donate directly through PayPal at lindaandfriendshelpinghands.org. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities or partnerships may contact the organization at [email protected]
As homelessness continues to challenge communities across Montgomery County, organizers say the success of the toy drive reflects what can happen when neighbors come together — not just during the holidays, but year-round — to lift one another up.
