Mitzvah Circle Brings the Goods to Families

by Dr. Stefani Arzonetti Hite, for the Shutte

October 3, 2025

Weavers Way members now have an opportunity to fulfill Co-op hours by volunteering with Mitzvah Circle to help pack up essentials that will go directly to families who need them most. Our volunteers are personal shoppers for families in need.  If you’re ready to have a hands-on impact that brings hope to your neighbors, sign up for a shift. Your time and kindness can truly change lives.  

Mitzvah Circle, founded by Fran Held in 2009,  is a Lansdale-based nonprofit that steps in to help families in crisis. Moved by her experiences and what she saw through volunteering, Fran realized there were serious gaps in immediate support for families in need — items like clothing, diapers and menstrual and hygiene products that are generally not covered by other organizations or government support. Rather than stand by, she began collecting and handing out supplies from her garage. The response was huge. Before long, what began as a small personal mission grew into a thriving community effort.

Over the years, Mitzvah Circle has expanded into larger warehouse spaces and  increased the size of its team and the number of families they helped. Last October, they moved into their permanent home, a 24,000-square-foot warehouse in Montgomeryville. Their support isn’t just limited to clothing or toiletries anymore.  They now provide everything from baby gear and school supplies to cleaning products, household items and children’s books — the essentials that can help get people back on their feet.

The organization’s personal touch sets it apart. Rather than handing out generic supplies, they work closely with families in need as well as social workers, schools, shelters and other nonprofits to make sure people get exactly what they need. They are careful to include the right sizes and preferred items, delivered with dignity and care. Because of this attention to detail, everyone feels respected and seen as an individual. Each family’s supplies are delivered straight to their door as quickly as possible.

To date, Mitzvah Circle has supported over 1.2 million people and delivered over 19 million items by working alongside more than 400 partner agencies in the Philadelphia area and surrounding counties. In the past five years, they provided more than 13 million diapers, making it possible for working parents to send their children to day care so they can maintain their jobs. The group also distributed over 3three million period supplies since 2020, which helps menstruators attend work or school without interruption. Supplying these critical necessities helps to build a stronger, more supportive community.

Perhaps what’s most special about Mitzvah Circle is the community that’s grown around the group. Volunteers don’t just hand out boxes; they connect, listen and remind people that they’re not alone. In tough times, that kindness and hope can mean everything.

At the heart of it, Mitzvah Circle brings people together to make a real, immediate difference. It’s proof that, with empathy, teamwork and a little determination, we can all play a part in helping others live with dignity and hope.

Learn more about Mitzvah Circle at mitzvahcircle.org. Volunteer shifts are available on weekdays for two hours in the morning or afternoon, and some Sundays. You can sign up for a volunteer shift at the volunteer link on our website.

Dr. Stefani Arzonetti Hite is founder of the Tigris Foundation, an Ambler-based organization dedicated to fostering community.