50 People Receive A Hand Up From Bucks County Philanthropists

BRISTOL, PA — Fifty Bucks County residents will receive direct financial relief thanks to a $50,000 donation from the Gene and Marlene Epstein Humanitarian Fund. The funds will be distributed as $1,000 checks to individuals vetted through Bucks County Opportunity Council.

The first recipients received their checks on Wednesday, Feb. 11 at the BCOC office in Bristol during an event attended by BCOC leadership, staff, BCOC participants, board members, and elected officials.

“Assistance can make a meaningful difference during difficult times, helping families stabilize and
move forward," said Gene and Marlene in making the donation.

"BCOC has participants who need that support and Gene and Marlene understand that this gift might change someone’s month, improve their conditions, and help lift them up to make a better life for themselves and their families," said BCOC executive director Erin Lukoss.

Gene, a car enthusiast and collector, sold one of his prized cars to fund the giveaway through the Humanitarian Fund. Shir Ami in Newtown and Ohev Shalom in Richboro also made contributions to the fund to help support the effort.

With this donation, Gene said they hope to inspire others to engage with worthy causes throughout the community.

The recipients on Wednesday included Wayne, who had been homeless for the last eight years until BCOC helped him move into his own place last week. He rode to the event on his bike, got a flat tire on the way, but still made it to the event. He talked with Gene and shared how grateful he was for the help.

Another recipient, Mary, had just come from an important medical appointment. She was grateful for the help and could not believe anyone would help in this way. She said BCOC has been so supportive, and she doesn't know what she would have done without the assistance.

Bryan shared that because of BCOC's help, he and his wife, Shanda, are in a better place and are giving back to their community. They started a food pantry in Bristol and are proud to help people every day, just as they have been helped.

“Today is a powerful example of what happens when compassion meets action," said Lukoss. "At BCOC, we believe that families know best what they need. Whether it’s keeping the heat on, paying rent, fixing a car so someone can get to work, or buying groceries, this kind of flexible support can be life changing. It can reduce stress, prevent crises, and create breathing room so families can focus on their goals.”