Port Richmond Strong on Sunday afternoon held a bingo fundraiser for residents impacted by the New Year’s Day house explosion.
The group consists of members of the St. George Elementary School Board of Limited Jurisdiction, Port Richmond On Patrol And Civic and Ancient Order of Hibernians/Ladies AOH Division 87.
The early-morning Jan. 1 explosion on the 3500 block of Miller St. destroyed three houses and damaged 50 others, along with damaging cars.
The cause remains unknown and may never be known, as there was so much destruction. Philadelphia Gas Works determined that there were no natural gas leaks on its infrastructure.
Port Richmond Strong has provided victims with gift cards. The group has also held a coin drop, T-shirt sales and the bingo to provide further assistance.
At the bingo, there were raffle baskets, a 50/50 and food and drink sales to raise money. City Councilman Jim Harrity and Republican Council candidate Sam Oropeza were among the bingo callers. Councilman Mark Squilla also made an appearance.
Among Port Richmond Strong’s sponsors were PROPAC, AOH Division 87, St. George BLJ, Squilla, Oropeza, Harrity, Councilman Mike Driscoll, Republican sheriff candidate Mark LaVelle, Wilson’s Meats, Czerw’s Polish Kielbasa, Cheers Cafe, Premier Physical Therapy, Bridesburg Elementary School Home and School Association, K&A Auto Salvage, Marie Contino, Rich Brunkel, Pace Roofing, GM Holdings, Pat’s Auto Tags, Neighborhood Real Estate (Ryan Straub, Erin Schrack and Mike Fasone) and Allstate Services. ••
