An electric lamp given away for free is a nice idea.

Three hundred electric lamps handed out for free is, well ... shockingAnd so it was for scores of local residents who ended 2014 on a bright note by grabbing home lighting at a price that can't be beat.No cash was required, no MasterCard or Visa, and no credit rating.Dozens showed up at a Tamaqua shopping center in bitter cold air to take advantage of the opportunity. The only thing required was a desire to give an orphan lamp a new home.The distribution was a last-minute development that originated with an individual's thoughtfulness and sense of caring.Jeaninne Motroni, Hometown, general manager of the Comfort Inn in West Hazleton, donated desk and table lamps after the inn bought new ones as part of a corporate refreshening program."We're told by our franchise when we have to replace certain items," Motroni explained."This year we were given a two-page list with 43 items we need to refresh in order to keep our flag. This, unfortunately, sometimes includes items we have put into place not too long ago, but for us to be compliant and keep the Comfort Inn flag we have to do it. A vast majority of these things are new or very close to new and in good shape."Motroni, an active firefighter with Hometown Fire Company, has witnessed plenty of hardship and realizes that household items can be like gold when you don't have them."I see first-hand the devastation on a family's face when they lose everything. So if I can help them regain some of the lost items, I feel happy," she said.For that reason, lamps were put aside for recent fire victims in MaryD and Shenandoah. But there still were lots left over.Motroni contacted Andy Leibenguth of Tamaqua Volunteers on Monday to let him know of the availability.However, to make it happen, Tamaqua Volunteers needed to arrange for a rental truck to pick up the items.The group appealed for monetary donations via Facebook, trying to raise $100 for a truck rental.At that point, Eagle Transport Inc., Hometown, stepped forward to provide transportation, as a gesture of goodwill by the firm.Tamaqua Volunteers then drove the truck to West Hazleton Wednesday and delivered the lamps to Tamaqua."If you want a lamp, simply show up. First come, first served. Lamps will not be held or reserved," announced Leibenguth on Facebook.Distribution was done at the Tamaqua YMCA parking lot, the former Jamesway Plaza.Leibenguth allotted three hours to get the job done. But all of the lighting was gone in 45 minutes.Each person showing up was allowed to take two, one swivel top bridge lamp and one desk lamp."I'm here looking for a floor lamp," said Deb Althouse of Tamaqua.Another said his family is doing a bit of remodeling and a few lamps would come in handy."We're working on a vintage room," said Tom Applegate of Andreas.Another said she appreciates the generosity at a time when money is tight."With Christmas bills and January heating costs, this is a blessing," said Ann Smith of Middleport.Motroni said she was happy to know the lamps are being used rather than thrown out or sold for scrap.Leibenguth said he's happy for Motroni's generosity."Comfort Inn is a regular supporter of the Tamaqua Volunteer group and Tamaqua Salvation Army," said Leibenguth.In past years, the inn has donated hundreds of televisions and thousands of pieces of bedding supplies, he said.