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LIFESTYLE LETTER

OCTOBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Douglas McDermott | douglas.mcdermott@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Fall In Pennsylvania Is Fabulous AMID A LARGE NUMBER OF HEALTH CARE UPDATES, WE RECEIVED SOME GOOD NEWS LATELY. U.S. News & World Report gave Chester County Hospital national ranking for excellent care, placing the hospital among the top 50 in the United States. The hospital also was rated as high-performing in three adult specialties and procedures: response to heart failure, hip replacement, and treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jeff Robinson AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jason Sandy/Angle Eye Photography, Peter Olson, Fiona Allison

Chester County Hospital ranked 10th in the state of Pennsylvania, and was fifth regionally, among Philadelphia area hospitals in the report. For anyone struggling with personal health care challenges related to nutrition, please let them know about the good deeds of the West Chester Food Cupboard, which we've featured on page 30. Even during this year's pandemic, the group's volunteers found new ways to still secure and supply food and personal care items to those neighbors in need. Can you feel fall coming? Check out how to plan for dynamic basement renovations and other indoor improvements with DiSabatino Landscaping's home renovation division. Or, maybe a large remodeling project requires an architectural

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

team on which you can depend. Take a look at one of the recent projects of Period

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Architecture Ltd., which challenged them to build a new residence next to West

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Chester's oldest house!

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

And while you're fine-tuning finances before it turns 2021, consider the thoughtful,

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

helpful tips from these Edward Jones financial advisors on page 18. Gladly falling into fall, 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Chimney Hill residence in West Chester, as designed by Period Architecture Ltd.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON SANDY, ANGLE EYE PHOTOGRAPHY 4

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the West Chester areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in West Chester Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Photo by: Tom Crane Photography

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INSIDE THE ISSUE OCTOBER 2020

FEATURES 12 Luxury Basements DiSabatino Interior Remodeling Team Prepares For Home Winter Projects

18 Year-End Financial Planning Local Edward Jones' Advisors Offer Beneficial Tips As 2020 Remains Unusually Challenging

24 Best Of Both Custom Architectural Firm Combines Modern Lifestyles With Time-Honored Traditions

30 No One Should Go Hungry! West Chester Food Cupboard Provides Fresh,

24 30

Nonperishable Healthy Food And Personal Care Items

18 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Renovate & Refine

Local Limelight

24 Locally Owned 30 Giving Back

AROUND TOWN

POET, ENGLISH PROFESSOR NAMED NEW DIRECTOR OF WCU POETRY CENTER

E-ZPass and Toll By Plate customers. Starting Jan.

Cherise Pollard was appointed as director of

3, tolls for E-Pass customers will go up 6 percent;

Commissioners approved toll increases for both

West Chester University's Poetry Center.

fees for Toll By Plate will increase by 45 percent.

Jen Bacon, dean of WCU College of Arts and

The PA Turnpike no longer accepts cash or

Humanities, says Cherise has 20 years of experi-

credit cards after permanently converting to the

ence as a poet, scholar, critic and teacher.

All-Electronic Toll method collection this summer.

A published poet and West Chester University

CONSIDER DONATING UNWANTED TECHNOLOGY DEVICES TO TELEHEALTH ACCESS FOR SENIORS

faculty member since 1999, Cherise says poetry unites. "It can help us understand what we’ve been through and help people articulate their lives. It can play an important role in helping us discover who

Have any camera-enabled devices (iPhones,

we are. I look forward to passing along my love for

iPads, Androids, device chargers) no longer needed

poetry to students, and to encouraging greater

or in use? Vani Chauhan, of Chester Springs, is a

student participation at poetry events on West

volunteer with 501c3 non-profit, TeleHealth Access

Chester University’s campus.”

for Seniors who's seeking device donations to help older U.S. citizens.

She specializes in African American historical novels, African American literary theory and crit-

Due to COVID-19, most health care facilities

icism, the Black Arts Movement, womanist and

are switching to telemedicine and this nonprofit

feminist criticism and theory, and twentieth century

is helping low-income, elderly patients get equal

American Poetry and Poetics. She completed fel-

access to digital medical care by providing them

lowships at Cave Canem: A Home for Black Poetry,

with devices. The group has donated more than

and after, published her first poems, “whateva you

1,500 devices to hospitals all across the country and

do” and “Call and Response.”

raised $60,000. They're currently collecting devices to give to the Veteran’s Affair in Philadelphia. Vani

Cherise organized numerous public readings

says they've donated 100 devices and are trying to

and craft talks at West Chester University.

meet the demand of 250 devices.

PA TURNPIKE APPROVES 45 PERCENT TOLL HIKE FOR NON-E-ZPASS DRIVERS

A device drop form is available on their website: TelehealthForSeniors.org/support-us // Forms.

Drivers on the Pennsylvania Turnpike who don't

gle/8oZT8KxfRvarteVo8. They also amass finan-

have E-ZPass will pay 45 percent more beginning

cial donations. Vani says $40 can buy a tablet for

in January 2021, per the rates recently approved by

a veteran.

CONTINUED >

Pennsylvania Turnpike Commissioners.

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

DIANE LOST

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AROUND TOWN

HAPPY FALL TO PROUD PET PARENTS FROM A PET/PROPERTY SITTER LouAnn Jensen, owner of Travel with Peace of Mind, LLC, is a professional property and reliable pet sitter who cares for domestic household pets and has years of firsthand experience caring for farm animals. She's the daughter of a small and large animal veterinarian. She says she prides herself in exemplary, dependable service and being "the very best" in her field. A complimentary meet-and-greet is part of her service. She provides references, background checks, proof of insurance and bonding coverage, along with a detailed service agreement. Contact LouAnn at 610.209.2788.

PIAA APPROVES WINTER SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIP SITES THROUGH 2023-24 SEASON Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association managers announced the following sites for future sports competitions. All sites selected were approved for four years. Hershey’s Giant Center will remain as the host

We Make Homes Beautiful

venue for PIAA winter sports championships: individual and team wrestling, basketball and competitive cheer through the 2023-24 season.

From one room to an entire home makeover, we do it all and have the products and ideas to suit your every need. Contact us to schedule your complimentary in-home design consultation.

Deborah Bettcher

Bucknell University’s Kinney Natatorium in Lewisburg will continue to be the host site of the swimming and diving championships on a fouryear agreement. Hershey has been the host site of competitive

Interior Designer & Owner

spirit championships since the PIAA first sanctioned

(610) 964-8403 · debbettcher@gmail.com www.deborah.decoratingden.com

for one season before moving to Giant Center.

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

the sport in 2013. It was held at Hersheypark Arena

FROM INSPIRATION TO INSTALLATION

OUR FOCUS IS ON YOU

R o m a n s 12 :10

w w w.de a n s-l a nd s c a p ing.c om | W es t Ches t er, Pa |

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RENOVATE & REFINE

Luxury Basements DISABATINO INTERIOR REMODELING TEAM PREPARES FOR HOME WINTER PROJECTS ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DISABATINO

WITH WINTER MONTHS APPROACHING, NOW’S THE TIME TO CONSULT ABOUT INTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS WITH TEAM MEMBERS OF THE HOME RENOVATION DIVISION AT DISABATINO LANDSCAPING. “Our highly skilled carpenters are happy to transfer their meticulous craftsmen skills indoors. Some people are surprised that they do more than decks, however our detailed, fine carpentry work, whether for outdoors or indoors, is what sets DiSabatino apart,” says Tom Wiechecki, vice president of the DiSabatino outdoor living division. This DiSabatino interior division handles basement refinishing projects, home additions, kitchen renovations, bathroom remodeling, window and door replacements, and specialty trims and finishes. Starting the interior services in 2014 was a natural extension of the award-winning hardscaping work being delivered by DiSabatino teams, says founder and president Christopher DiSabatino. Tom says basement refinishing and remodeling is a great way to increase quality living space while also increasing the resale values of homes. Adding game rooms, home theaters and offices are popular choices, and projects focused on entertainment and exercise are increasing in homeowners’ priorities. “With many people not traveling as much as they used to and not going to restaurants or bars, they’re creating their own such spaces. It’s like establishing a home away from home downstairs,” says Tom. He says they provide proprietary 3D designs with live consultations and interactive changes, when needed. “Our approach allows our clients to know exactly what to expect before even starting a project,” he adds. “Whether you’re looking to add a full-blown entertainment space with a built-in bar, game room, media room, office, guest bedroom, wine cellar or workout space, we’re up for the job,” says Tom. 12

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

RENOVATE & REFINE (CONTINUED)

He says they have proven experience in employing basement-waterproofing techniques, such as French drains, built-in dehumidifiers

brand manufacturers that will allow us to offer you materials you cannot find at the big box stores,” says Tom.

and sump pumps with battery backups. When renovating, they also

He says once design plans are complete, all materials are selected

slope soil away from the foundations of houses, divert gutters away

and ordered. Working with Chris Iacono, DiSabatino project man-

from basements, seal small gaps around pipes and fill cracks and

ager, they then coordinate all permits, work scheduling, construction

sealants. Additionally, they use basement-refinishing products that

cleanup and site management. “Chris keeps clients informed of the

stand up to moisture, such as waterproof stain and mold-resistant

process and keeps disruptions to a minimum,” says Tom.

wall panels, flooring and ceiling tiles. “We know it’s important to protect our clients’ investments,” says Tom. Regarding luxury basements, he says they work with homeowners’ personal tastes to create renovations that match various lifestyles. “We construct basements that give clients value, efficiency and

“We take great pride in creating beautiful basements that complement homes and give homeowners the functionality they need,” he says. DiSabatino teams work with the same, integrated office staff, sharing the core values of integrity, trust and a true passion for exceeding clients’ expectations. In fact, the company’s team members take pride in

functionality. Whether you’re looking to match your home’s décor,

their reputation of having an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.

create a new style or go retro, we can provide you with a full-service

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basement renovation. We’ve developed relationships with all the top

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Ye a r - E n d Financial Planning LOCAL EDWARD JONES' ADVISORS OFFER BENEFICIAL TIPS AS 2020 REMAINS UNUSUALLY CHALLENGING

As an Edward Jones senior financial advisor, Jeff Kitchen says he believes it’s essential to invest time in understanding what’s most important to his clients before directing them about how to invest their money.

Accredited Asset Management Specialist 105 South High St., West Chester | 610.430.1320

cannot guarantee profits or protect against all losses, it can help reduce the impact of volatility. 2. Don’t play politics with your portfolio. You may be surprised to learn the stock market has increased under

This professional has plenty of experience with which to

every political combination in Washington, providing an

cross-reference. In 1998, Jeff joined Edward Jones as an advi-

annual average return of 10% per year. And the economy

sor, opening the first branch office in West Chester. He became

has grown regardless of who controlled the White House

a limited partner in 2003, and was named a principal with the

and Congress. It can be dangerous to your wealth to pre-

firm in 2015, with responsibilities for the Northeast as a mem-

dict what’s going to happen in financial markets based on

ber of the Advanced Branch Team Performance group.

political configurations in Washington.

JEFF’S TWO FINANCIAL TIPS FOR YEAR-END

Exchange Club of West Chester, Greater West Chester

FINANCIAL PLANNING ARE:

Chamber of Commerce and St. Agnes Pastoral Council.

Jeff is active in the community as a member of the

1. We can’t control the markets, but we can control our

He also was the former president of the West Chester

reaction to them. Staying patient, disciplined, and focused

Area Senior Center, Exchange Club of West Chester and

on your long-term goals is critical. While diversification

the Greater West Chester Chamber of Commerce.

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON

Jeff Kitchen

Edward Jones financial advisor,

Edward Jones financial advisor Brendan Murphy affirms he always seeks to truly understand what goals his clients are working toward, as well as their unique circumstances and comfort with risk levels. “My primary goal is to help clients organize, build, protect and eventually transfer their wealth. I believe everyone deserves sound financial advice so they can make informed decisions,” says Brendan. BRENDAN’S TWO FINANCIAL TIPS FOR YEAR-END FINANCIAL PLANNING ARE: 1. Fully understand the SECURE (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement) ACT and CARES (Coronavirus Aid Relief, and Economic Security) ACT and their impact to retirement strategies. These pieces of legislation could affect the Individual Retirement Accounts and 401(k)s of millions of Americans, beginning in 2020. You’ll want to learn how these changes might help, or impact you, either as you live in retirement, or as you continue to save for it. 2. Changed jobs? Stay organized. How you handle your 401(k), pension or other employer retirement plan when leaving a job is a very important financial decision. Know your employer retirement plan options, learn the distribution options, learn how to avoid the 20% IRS withEdward Jones financial advisor,

holding and how taxes, penalties and investment options

Accredited Asset Management Specialist

factor into your decision.

520 S. Bradford Ave., West Chester | 610.436.4101

BRENDAN MURPHY

Prior to assisting Edward Jones clients, Brendan served as a naval officer and pilot for 25 years. He currently serves on the boards of Longwood Rotary Foundation and the Military Officers Association of America Valley Forge Chapter. He also serves as a member on Service Academy nomination interview panels, and as a Blue and Gold admissions officer to assist high school students in their pursuit of being admitted to the U.S. Naval Academy. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Edward Jones financial advisor, Accredited Asset Management Specialist 206 West Miner St., Floor 1, West Chester | 610.696.0210

Brad Abel Brad Abel, an Edward Jones financial advisor, says he especially enjoys helping with retirement savings strategies so clients have more options when they retire, regardless of what they decide to do. Prior to joining Edward Jones, Brad worked as an IBM financial sales executive, and as a Turner Foundation

BRAD’S TWO FINANCIAL TIPS FOR YEAR-END FINANCIAL PLANNING ARE: 1. Market declines can test the nerves of even the most patient investors. If you own a diversified mix of quality investments, resist the temptation to sell or make changes based on short-term events.

grant associate. He’s active in the West Chester Rotary,

2. Market sentiment is likely to swing from optimism to

serving on the board and chairing the annual Chili Cook-

anxiety as the economy continues down the path of recov-

Off. He was awarded Rotarian of 2016/2017. He’s also

ery. Consider using periodic market swings to help fill in

a member of the Greater West Chester Chamber of

portfolio gaps and enhance diversification across asset

Commerce, and has been a board member of the West

classes, sectors and geographies. “At Edward Jones, we

Chester Area Senior Center.

believe relationships are key,” he says.

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

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LOCALLY OWNED CUSTOM ARCHITECTURAL FIRM COMBINES MODERN LIFESTYLES WITH TIME-HONORED TRADITIONS

Best Of Both PERIOD ARCHITECTURE LTD. IS KNOWN FOR

The second, more informal family and guest

INTUITIVE, COMPREHENSIVE ARCHITECTURE.

arrival side features more cottage aesthetics, with

NO MATTER THE PROJECT, THE FIRM’S PROFES-

sheltering roof lines, a breezeway and brackets that

SIONALS ACHIEVE THE DESIRED BLEND OF NEW

help bring down the scale.

INDIVIDUALITY, CHARACTER AND AMBIANCE.

The architects used the landscaping and picket

“We serve discerning clients who desire their

fence of the raised courtyard to create the feeling

homes to transcend period styles and trends, to

of privacy and comfort. The house neighbors a

include the necessities of comfortable contemporary

historic home -- one that is the oldest house in

living, and to be harmoniously sited within landscapes

West Chester -- so Joe says they were very mind-

and communities,” says Joseph Mackin Jr., Period

ful of remaining complementary to that home.

Architecture co-founder and president.

Secondary roof patterns off the main mass gam-

Joe has long been inspired by the historical and

brel roof give the appearance of additions over

regional architecture of his native Pennsylvania, and

time, boosting the house’s overall character. The

also by the resurgence and appreciation of classical

design team also sought to create open and shel-

and traditional forms. He confides he’s motivated by

tering areas for entertaining, grilling and playing

a dual passion for historical and modern designs. Just

outdoors.

take a look at the details he and his team incorporated into this new Chimney Hill residence in West Chester spotlighted here in West Chester Lifestyle.

Among some of the home’s unique features is the herb garden just off the kitchen. Its “Party Barn” and breezeway links the garage

This 4,000-square-foot residence on 1.5 acres with a

to the residence, with the barn opening onto

barn and garage that provide additional usable space

the raised courtyard, making a wonderful viewing

was modeled in the style of the Colonial Williamsburg/

spot for sunsets.

Dutch-Colonial Revival period. “We knew scale, pro-

Some key professionals and craftspeople who

portion, order and rhythm of architectural details and

helped make this charming house happen were: Ken

materials are very important to the style’s design. So, we

Cassella/Cassella Builders, of Glenmoore; Mansueto

incorporated classic Dutch Colonial materials, including

Hardwood, of West Chester; Halkett Woodworking, of

a cedar gambrel roof, brick foundation, painted clap-

Souderton; and Zarelli Landscaping, of West Chester.

board siding and painted millwork,” says Joe. During design, the team gave particular attention to the orientation, views and connection between

And, what did the new owners of this Chimney Hill residence have to say about the final outcome? “It turned out to be pure perfection.”

indoor and outdoor living spaces. Joe says one of the immediate challenges was

CELEBRATING THE FIRM’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY

that the house has two frontages: a formal side

Period Architecture Ltd. is a custom architectural

that faces toward the public and an informal side

firm whose team’s designs since 2010 have been

used by family and visitors.

rooted in time-honored traditions that also accom-

For the formal, front-facing features, predominance

modate complex, contemporary lifestyles. This dual

was given to the gambrel massing with order and

pursuit achieves transcendent, beautiful and livable

rhythm to the front porch, windows and dormers.

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON PHOTOGRAPHY JASON SANDY, ANGLE EYE PHOTOGRAPHY 24

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

CONTINUED >

Period Architecture staff; Photo by Peter Olson CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

architecture that integrates family life, entertaining and indoor-to-outdoor living. Based in Malvern, Period Architecture professionals say they are committed stewards of the landscape and vernacular architecture. Whether historic, transitional or modern style, Joe says the firm’s team aims to enrich and enhance the lives of their clients as well as their properties. Projects include new residences, additions and renovations, restorations, barns, and property planning. “Appreciation and adaptation of regional and vernacular differences have led us to execute projects beyond Pennsylvania, including Delaware, New Jersey and along the eastern seaboard,” he adds. AFFILIATIONS + The American Institute of Architects + The American Institute of Architects Philadelphia Chapter + The Athenaeum of Philadelphia + Institute of Classical Architecture & Art + Society of American Registered Architects Period Architecture services are full spectrum: master planning, researching codes, design, documentation and project management, as well as identifying builders, consultants, engineers, historians, and craftspeople as needed. “It’s all about establishing trust, and taking care of details,” says Joe, who was fascinated with building things from an early age. Period Architecture’s design studio team members prepare hand-sketched perspectives and digital or physical models that allow for careful analysis. Regular presentations to clients illuminate the design process and engage clients’ active participation -- an approach that results in synergistically evolved solutions. info@periodarchitectureltd.com 610.719.0101 PeriodArchitectureLTD.com CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

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NO ONE SHOULD GO HUNGRY!

GIVING BACK

ARTICLE JULIE BROWN PATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY FIONA ALLISON

WEST CHESTER FOOD CUPBOARD PROVIDES FRESH, NONPERISHABLE HEALTHY FOOD AND PERSONAL CARE ITEMS TO THOSE IN NEED

West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

HUNGER HEROES ARE ALWAYS WANTED AT WEST CHESTER FOOD CUPBOARD. During this year’s COVID-19 sheltering in place and challenging workforce issues, having such a community food beacon has been a lifeline to many. The organizers of this local cupboard want everyone who would like food assistance to know that shopping there is safe, easy and friendly. HISTORY OF THE CUPBOARD The West Chester Food Cupboard was created in 2009 when the Chester County Cares Food Cupboard closed. Dismayed volunteers banded together and stepped up to the challenge to operate a new food cupboard themselves. By 2012, the new set of community leaders succeeded in forming their own non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Fiona Allison, West Chester Food Cupboard board of directors secretary, says the number of volunteers and donations then increased, as residents and business owners responded generously to the needs of low-income West Chester neighbors, who were struggling to feed themselves and their families. During the summer of 2017, Fiona says the group had outgrown the former premises on E. Gay Street, and the volunteers decided to move. They were lucky enough to find 431 S. Bolmar Street – a location with twice the space, and what they said they believed would be a wonderfully welcoming place for clients to shop. The Cupboard is still 100% volunteer run with no paid staff, affirms Fiona. Currently there is a seven-person board of directors, a lead volunteer team of 14, and more than 150 volunteers, who willingly carry out a myriad of tasks.

"Our donors and volunteers are all neighbors caring for neighbors." — Joseph Fra t i na rd o , We s t C h e s t e r Food Cupboard president

SECURING FOOD TO COUNTERACT FOOD INSECURITY Food items issued by the Cupboard are 50% purchased and 50% donated. Every donation directly supports the goal of achieving food security in the community. Board members assure they are an equal opportunity provider, and that they welcome clients and volunteers from all walks of life. They provide fresh produce, dairy, and meats in addition to non-perishables and basic personal care items, with clients choosing which items their family needs. Approximately $750,000 gets donated to the Cupboard in a typical year. “Because we have no paid staff, 98.5% of our expenses is related to our programs, such as food purchases, rent and utilities. Only 0.3% is spent on management and admin expenses, and 1.2% on fundraising,” says Joe Fratinardo, president of the West Chester Food Cupboard. He says cash donations to the group come from four main sources: individuals (35%), grants (30%), non-profit organizations (25%) and businesses (10%).

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WestChesterPA

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

“One person can make a di fference , and e v e r y o n e s h o u l d t r y.” — J o h n F. K e n n e d y “Approximately 75% of our food donations come from the

They also wear gloves and masks for all functions, and everyone’s

Chester County Food Bank and 10 local businesses that sell food.

temperature is taken when they arrive. “Keeping everyone safe is

The remaining 25% comes primarily from a variety of individuals,

very important,” confirms Joe.

nonprofit organizations and businesses,” says Joe. “We’re so grate-

He says purchasing food has required more effort, due to disrup-

ful for the incredible support of the community. We couldn’t help

tions in the supply chain but that they’ve been able to maintain a

those in need without them.”

good food supply to meet their clients’ needs.

There’s activity at the cupboard six days a week, and Joe says the

“Before the pandemic, clients were able to enter the facility and

volunteers coordinate receiving and distributing more than 20,000

shop for their needs. Since the pandemic, clients no longer enter the

pounds of food a week.

facility and shop. However, we have set up a drive-through where

Volunteers are provided an overall orientation and are also

each family receives a pre-selected variety of foods that include

provided training depending on the role they are perform-

dairy, meats, fresh produce, nonperishables and personal care items.

ing. Approximately 20 of the Cupboard’s 150 volunteers have

Our volunteers bring full carts of groceries outside the facility and

very defined management roles, such as treasury, bookkeeping,

load them in our clients’ cars. There is minimal interaction between

fundraising, outreach, purchasing, logistics, shift leads, and

clients and volunteers in an effort to keep everyone safe,” says Joe.

other back office functions, affirms Joe. The remainder of their volunteers perform many tasks, including serving clients, stock-

He says the new system requires more preparation to have carts ready for the three days a week they serve clients.

ing shelves, unloading deliveries, repackaging items from bulk quantities, cleaning the facility, or becoming drivers to pick up

HOURS OF CUPBOARD OPERATION:

donated and purchased food.

TUESDAYS, los martes 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Anyone interested in volunteering can email wcfood@gmail.com.

THURSDAYS, los jueves 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Joe says many of the group’s volunteers are older than 60, or

SATURDAYS, los sábados 8:30-11:30 a.m.

have conditions that don’t allow them to volunteer during this year’s

431 South Bolmar St., West Chester

COVID-19 pandemic. “We work each day with limited crews to try

610.344.3175 | wcfood@gmail.com

and maintain social distancing,” he adds.

WCF.org

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

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West Chester Lifestyle | October 2020

An array of rich fabrics and stylish garments line the walls immersing you in a world of possibilities within the realm of bespoke & couture traditions.

3620 Chapel Rd Newtown Square, PA (610) 356-0421

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