Boys & Girls Club of Chester Hosts Powerful Resource Rally, Providing Food & Essentials to Over 400 Local Families

On Tuesday, November 18th, the Boys & Girls Club of Chester, located at 201 E. 7th Street, transformed into a hub of hope, support, and community impact as nearly 400 families received much-needed resources during the 2025 Resource Rally. This large-scale, drive-through food and essentials distribution event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Price Rite Marketplace and the partnership of Feed the Children.

Designed to address the rising challenges of food insecurity in Chester and the surrounding communities, the event provided families with a wide range of supplies. Each household received a 25-pound box of food, a 15-pound box of personal care items, backpacks filled with school supplies, Price Rite Marketplace gift cards, a case of water, and other essentials aimed at helping families meet their immediate needs with dignity.

A Morning Rooted in Partnership and Purpose

Before distribution began, the event opened with a ceremony featuring remarks from distinguished partners and community leaders, each underscoring the importance of collaboration in meeting the needs of Chester’s families. Speakers included:

• Stefan Roots, Mayor of Chester

• Katrina Blackwell, Interim Commissioner of Chester Police Department

• El'Lan Morgan, Police Captain at the Chester Police Department

• Derrick T. Billups, Sr., Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Club of Chester

• Mark Freeman, Chairman of the Boys & Girls Club of Chester Board

• Joe Allegro, Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships, Feed the Children

• Jon Wiltrout, Director of Human Resources, Price Rite Marketplace

Their collective message was clear: when organizations, leaders, and neighbors join forces, real change happens.

A Community That Shows Up

As cars began lining up and families arrived on foot, an impressive team of volunteers went straight to work. Volunteers came from every corner of Chester — including fraternity and sorority partners, community organizations, local residents, and members of the Chester Police Department. Together, they helped facilitate the drive-through distribution, greeting families warmly and ensuring each person received the full package of resources.

The response was overwhelming. Supplies for more than 400 families were distributed, and due to the strong turnout, everything was given out in under two hours. Importantly, no requirements or paperwork were needed for families to receive support, ensuring access was barrier-free and welcoming to all.

A Day That Reflects the Mission

For the Boys & Girls Club of Chester, the Resource Rally was more than a distribution event — it was an extension of their mission to uplift and strengthen the families they serve. By partnering with Feed the Children and Price Rite, the Club continues its commitment to addressing food insecurity, supporting academic and personal growth, and building a healthier, more resilient community.

“We are grateful for every sponsor, partner, and volunteer who made this day possible,” said Derrick Billups, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Chester. “When we come together, we can make a real difference for children and families who need it most.”

Gratitude That Stretches Beyond the Parking Lot

The Boys & Girls Club of Chester extends heartfelt thanks to Price Rite Marketplace, Feed the Children, our elected officials, community partners, and the incredible volunteers whose service made the Resource Rally a success. Their dedication helped ensure that hundreds of families left with essential goods — and a renewed sense of support during challenging times.