PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — During the coronavirus pandemic, with everyone forced to keep their distance, one Bucks County man decided it was the perfect time to do the opposite and reach out to those in need.
Chris Munz started a Facebook page, "Pay it Forward People," that allows people to reach out to give and receive.
"I just wanted to reach out to see if any people on Facebook needed any help. And I figured maybe someone needed some food or something I could run it over to them," Munz said. "I had no idea how many people needed food."
As people stepped forward to volunteer their time, others in need messaged Munz.
"Somebody said they needed a washer, and some other woman said she had a washer, so I hooked the two of them together. Then someone needed a refrigerator, so I posted that and then others said they wanted to contribute to the refrigerator. It just took off."
Then Munz met an elderly man in the community who needed more than food.
"He's living in a house with no heat, no hot water, holes in the roof. So I stopped by, thinking maybe ... I could get him heat and patch the roof," Munz said. "I'll bet you I have had at least 100 people offer to help."
And he is not stopping there. After heat and water and furniture, Munz started working on a meal train for the man. That's a cordinated group effort to make and deliver meals.
"I didn't even know what a meal train was," Munz said. "It's an unbelievable feeling when you area able to give to somebody and they are just so appreciative."
Munz says the pandemic has made him more grateful for the little things — the freedom to get together with friends, or just giving someone a hug. He says he has travelled as far as the Poconos to assist someone.
Anyone interested in helping out, making donations, volunteering time or preparing a meal can post to the group. Munz's team will arrange for free transportation of donated items if needed.
There are currently over 400 members.
