South Jersey Charity Supports Those in Need

For over 9 years, People for the Poor has raised and donated money to help the poor in South Jersey.

Co-founder Mike Scott was inspired to start the cause after hearing a Phil Collins song while he drove in his car.

Shortly after, he pitched his idea to co-founder Caroline Scherrer, who was immediately on-board. With that, People for the Poor was born.

"We raise funds for homeless shelters and soup kitchens," Scott said.

The areas they serve includes: Atlantic, Camden, Gloucester, Cumberland, and Burlington Counties.

In the first year, the charity brought in $8,000, but that number has jumped considerably over the last few years.

People for the Poor has raised an average nearing $50,000 the last several years, with all dollars going directly to organizations around South Jersey.  The non-profit is also 100 percent volunteer.

"In the last 9 years, we've given away over $300,000," Scott said.

On March 14, they hold their annual St. Patrick's Day Beef & Beer at Our Lady of Hope Parish Center in Blackwood, NJ. The event, which runs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., promises to be fun with food, music, dancing, auctions and 50/50 raffles. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

All of the proceeds support the charity's efforts to continue assisting the poor.

"Our mission is to help those that have nothing to eat and nowhere to sleep," he said. "It's just everybody helping each other to get back on their feet again."

Find out more about this great New Jersey non-profit and their upcoming event by visiting the People for the Poor website and Facebook page.