HARLINGEN — Jim Coffman isn’t quite sure whether the Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry has held its annual rummage sale for the past four years or six years.
But, it doesn’t much matter.
The Harlingen resident and pantry director knows the other numbers that are more important — $4,000 to $5,000 raised from the rummage sale, all of which goes to purchasing food to give out to those in need in the city of Harlingen.
Set for Feb. 2 from 7 a.m. to noon at the Church of Christ at 8th and Harrison, the sale will include clothing, household items, electronics and furniture.
Right now, Coffman and his volunteers are hoping to collect many more items for the sale.
He said furniture donations bring the best return as well as beds, appliances and relatively new and working electronics.
For those who have items to donate, Coffman said pickup is available. For those who want to drop off items, you must call Coffman and there will be volunteers there to meet you at the Church of Christ to accept your donation.
The food pantry always will accept monetary donations as well.
Coffman discussed the need in Harlingen, which he says continues no matter what time of the year it is.
Prior to Christmas, the pantry and its 100 or so volunteers collected money to purchase more than 1,000 turkeys to give out.
“Most of our volunteers are doing what they love and love what they are doing,” Coffman said. “And it is all for the citizens of Harlingen.”
YOU SHOULD KNOW
• The Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry serves 1,200 to 1,400 individuals per month with food.
• The first week of January, the pantry served 210 on Wednesday and 120 more on Friday.
• The pantry is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
• It is operated by about 100 volunteers
WHAT THEY ARE LOOKING FOR
With the upcoming Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry Rummage Sale, items being sought include, new or gently used:
• Furniture
• Appliances
• Electronics
• Bed frames
• Clothing
However, many other types of items also are welcome.
Those with items to donate should call Jim Coffman at 428-3972. Pickup is available. The Harlingen Neighborhood Food Pantry is a 501(c)3 organization.
