Habitat for Humanity of Berks County's 8th annual Birdhouse Challenge raises nearly $50,000

Michelle Lynch, Reading Eagle, Pa.
·1 min read

Apr. 26—Habitat for Humanity of Berks County's eighth annual Birdhouse Challenge ended Tuesday with a fundraising reception and auction.

Twenty-eight birdhouses were built by local artists, students and other supporters for the auction and another 38 hand-crafted birdhouses were included along with gift baskets and other prizes in a raffle.

More than 200 people — the event's largest crowd ­ — attended the event DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Reading.

The event raised nearly $50,000 to support the nonprofit's mission to build strong and stable homes and communities.

Three awards were presented during the event honoring individuals and groups who have made a major impact on Habitat's work and mission:

— Distinguished Individual Award: James and Irmgard Barrett;

— Volunteer of the Year: Richard Wick;

— Community Partner: Bethel Hill United Methodist Church, Lansdale.

Bethel Hill has tremendously helped Habitat Berks over the past year by donating the lumber and materials for the framework for six newly built homes on Miltimore Street, said Doug Long, development director for the organization.

Church members constructed the framework in their church parking lot and then delivered the completed frames to Miltimore Street. They also volunteered their help on the construction site, he said.