Kutztown, PA - October 9, 2026 - Senator Judy Schwank joined Friend, Inc. Community Services and the Greater Berks Development Fund to celebrate the organization's new permanent home in Kutztown and highlight the $800,000 in Local Share Account grant funding that is helping make the project possible.

Friend, Inc., a community services nonprofit that has served northeastern Berks County for more than 50 years, now has a centralized location designed to meet the growing needs of families across the region. The newly renovated facility will house a food pantry as well as expanded space for critical wrap-around services.

Senator Schwank emphasized the importance of strengthening support in rural portions of Berks County, where distance and transportation barriers make accessing social services more challenging.

"In rural areas, having services close to home makes a world of difference," Schwank said. "Support needs to be local and accessible to have the biggest impact. This new space gives Friend, Inc. the foundation it needs to expand its reach and better serve families who rely on these programs."

The LSA funding supports extensive rehabilitation of the building, including the development of dedicated office space for partner organizations such as the Family Guidance Center, Maternal and Family Health Services, and others who will provide on-site supportive services.

Executive Director Jim Reece and Debra Millman, President of the Greater Berks Development Fund, spoke at the event and noted that the project has benefited from strong collaboration with community partners like DESCCO Construction, which is guiding the facility renovation.

"There are so many possibilities this project unlocks," Schwank said. "Friend, Inc. has been a quiet but steady presence in this community for decades, and this new home will allow them to do even more good for even more people."

Following the speaking program, attendees were invited to tour the new facility, located at 60 Bieber Alley, Kutztown, PA.

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