The Tamaqua Volunteers group is trying to restock its emergency storage unit with emergency and household supplies to be given to local fire victims at no charge in the event of a house fire.

After noticing how difficult it was to raise furniture and appliance donations immediately following a house fire, the group decided to collect and store furniture and appliance donations to give to local families immediately after a fire.After a house fire, volunteers with the group approach the families affected to offer furniture, appliances, clothing and other basic needs to help them get back on their feet. The group, which is only able to provide donations to recent victims living in Eastern Schuylkill County, works together with fellow volunteers of the Tamaqua Salvation Army Emergency Response Team and Schuylkill and Eastern Northumberland Chapter of the American Red Cross.Tamaqua Volunteers president Andrew Leibenguth said, "Recent fires have depleted the amount of donations we have in the storage unit. We are asking the public's help in refilling the now empty storage unit with furniture and appliances for fire victims."Leibenguth also stated his appreciation to American Hose Company firefighter Thorn Devlin of Thorn's Cycles and ATVs for donating the use of the emergency storage unit. Currently, the group is seeking three to four single beds, one full size bed, one crib, clean mattresses, two toddler beds and collapsible furniture or chairs. Leibenguth added, "If you have furniture, appliances or emergency supplies you want to donate, or have a pickup truck to help move the items to the storage unit or family's home, please call me anytime at (570) 668-1234 or email me at

andyleibenguth@tamaquaarea.com."