NORTH BRADDOCK, PA. — This holiday season, residents across the area are receiving a special delivery ahead of Christmas as part of a community-driven initiative.
Sitting on his bright red new sofa, Geraldo Beltrand is thankful.
“I met the mayor through church, and he heard about my situation. He spoke with me and offered to help if I needed furniture. I was grateful because I used to be too proud to ask for help,” Beltrand said.
Now, Beltrand is accepting the generosity of his community.
“I never thought there were people out there who would really care about what’s going on in other people’s lives,” he said.
Beltrand is just one of nearly 100 people in the region receiving new sofa beds and chairs this holiday season.
The initiative is led by the Mayor’s Charitable Fund, which includes 20 local communities working together to make a difference by cutting through government red tape.
“There are a lot of seniors who aren’t living in poverty but still need assistance. The Mayor’s Charitable Fund partnered with the Residence Inn, which was giving away furniture, so we decided to give it to people in our communities,” said North Braddock Mayor Cletus Lee.
Despite the bitter cold, volunteers ensure these residents get their special delivery before the holidays.
“This is something rare these days. It was a kind gesture, and I’m grateful for it,” said resident Evelyn West.
The nonprofit hopes to expand its efforts in the new year, with more than five other communities looking to join the project.
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