A.B.A.T.E. of PA is an alliance of bikers dedicated to protecting the individual rights of motorcyclists through political change, charitable works, and public education. A.B.A.T.E. has been working toward motorcycle awareness and helping motorists since 1983.The organization has been brining much needed food donations to Neighborhood Services Center (NSC) in Oxford for 34 years.

Madison Chambers, the development and marketing manager for Neighborhood Services Center, (NSC) was only too happy to see them return this year.

“The need is bigger than ever,” Chambers said. “The last time we had walk-ins for food, the line went completely around the building.”

NSC is known for its work in the Oxford community, but they also serve the surrounding areas, too. And the people they serve might surprise you.

“Everyone is just one crisis away from needing food,” Chambers explained. “One accident, loss of job, or death in the family can change lives immediately. Every person deserves food, and if we are in a position to help someone, we should.”

Chambers emphasized that many different people find themselves in need of assistance when a crisis hits.

“It is people that are working, but down on their luck,” she said. “A lot of people are one paycheck away from being homeless or needing food. And you might not even know that it could be your neighbor.” 

A.B.A.T.E. members made their annual ride to NSC, and they were welcomed by Chambers. It may have been their 34th trip, but it is always a beautiful sight to see the group coming to town.

“They make a big difference,” Chambers said. “The need for food has doubled in June. We have fed 75 families over three days at the walk-ins. That doesn’t count those that make appointments. Every donation helps. Getting the word out is important as well.”

Chester County, in general, has a big need for food assistance. NSC depends on people in the community to spread the word or to let people know what they do.

“We couldn’t do it without all the support we get from the many groups in the area like the Lions Club, Rotary Club, churches, Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce, SILO, Lighthouse, and many individuals. No donation is too small. We take food or money. We don’t turn anything away,” Chambers said. 

NSC still does appointments Monday through Thursday during normal business hours that can be scheduled with the receptionist. They also have new hours from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays. They have Spanish-speaking volunteers to help as well, but can always use more volunteers.

NSC is always thinking outside the box to work toward achieving its mission. 

Chambers explained, “A couple weeks ago, I posted monthly food needs on Facebook and the next day we had food through Door Dash, only the first name. Later that day that person asked if we got the order. We asked if he would like to visit the food pantry, but he lived across the country in a different state. He grew up in Oxford and he said he owes a debt of gratitude to this town. We rely on this community and people like him.”

She added,  “We do need publicity to fulfill our mission. Simple food donations are important and essential to our mission. Every post that I have shared gets a result. I said we needed paper bags and we got over 300 sent to us from Amazon.” 

No one wants to talk about needing help, but when you need it, NSC is here. NSC is the heart of the community and they plan to be here for years to come for our children and grandchildren.

Chambers said, “We serve the greater Oxford area: Nottingham, Avondale, West Grove and in between. If we can’t serve them, we will send them to someone else. We connect everyone to what they need.”

For more information check out the website at oxfordnsc.org or you can call them at 610-932-8557. No donation is to small.