Tara Stoop is director and founder of Kindness Between Friends (Source: Tara Stoop).
For 10 years now, Kindness Between Friends has been helping individuals and families in need in Bucks and Montgomery Counties.
Tara Stoop, director and founder, talked to Access Network about the organization’s programs and how the community can get involved and help.
“At the heart of our nonprofit lies a profound commitment to empower veterans, individuals facing homelessness, domestic violence, food insecurity, and people needing a hand up in Bucks and Montgomery Counties,” she explained.
“For 10 years now, our mission has been to provide not just immediate relief, but a path to independence.”
The nonprofit’s programs include their Christmas program which supplies over 20,000 gifts to families in need, and their Thanksgiving food drive which distributes over 300 Thanksgiving baskets to the community.
Between November 1 through to the end of December, their food pantry also provides necessities not covered under the SNAP program as well as essential food items.
“Each interaction is a seed of hope, a chance for someone to blossom into their best self. We also offer budget counseling, assistance with rent, utilities, clothing, and school supplies where funding allows,” Stoop said.
On the biggest challenges the organization faces in fulfilling its mission, she said, “Funding is always the biggest challenge we face. Despite the increasing demand for our services, we are a 100% volunteer organization that relies solely on public donations. Each year, more families seek assistance, intensifying our need for resources.
“Additionally, as the landscape of our community changes, we strive to keep up with evolving needs. Balancing the logistics of organizing donation drives with the ever-pressing need for financial support often feels like navigating a complex maze. However, these challenges ignite our creativity and resilience, pushing us to explore innovative solutions within our community.”
How can the community get involved?
Stoop said there are many different ways community members and businesses can get involved. Individual and corporate contributions are greatly appreciated and really make a difference.
Any business can become an Angel Tree location helping sponsor gifts for families in need or organize a food drive for the Thanksgiving and Christmas programs.
Businesses and individuals can also donate gifts through the Angel Tree programs and by volunteering.
“Whether you assist with sorting donations, help in distribution, or participate in fundraising activities, every effort counts,” Stoop emphasized.
“Donations can easily be made via Venmo or PayPal, and as a registered 501(c)(3), your contributions are tax-deductible. By spreading the word about our mission and programs, you help us reach those who could benefit from our services. Together, we can create an expansive network of support, transforming lives one act of kindness at a time.”
On what she enjoys most about the work the nonprofit does, Stoop said, “The moments of transformation feed my soul! Witnessing a client take steps toward stability and independence feels like watching a majestic butterfly emerge from its chrysalis. Listening to stories of resilience, hope, and eventual success brings immeasurable joy, especially when clients who once received help return to volunteer. It’s a circle of giving and community spirit that continually inspires and fuels our mission.”
For more information about Kindness Between Friends, visit kindnessbucks.com.
