An independent representative for Silpada Designs held a jewelry sale on Feb. 12 to raise money for victims of a fire in Delaware Water Gap, Pa.
 
Following a fire at Water Gap Village apartments on Jan. 24., Karen DeMatteo had the idea to raise money for the victims. Roughly six families were displaced and some completely lost everything, according to DeMatteo.
 
“The apartment complex is down the street from where my rotary club meets for lunch,” she says. “So I got the idea to hold a fundraiser.”
 
DeMatteo held the benefit at the Sycamore Grill Feb. 12. She displayed 300 pieces from the Silpada catalog while the restaurant provided appetizers. “It was close to Valentine’s Day and people could come in and shop,” she says.
 
Because she’s an independent representative for the
sterling silver jewelry company, DeMatteo explains, she can hold a fundraiser and donate her take to a cause of her choice—in this case, the victims and their families. “Silpada doesn’t put any
restrictions on me.”
 
Sales weren’t what DeMatteo had hoped—she sold about $800 worth jewelry, of which her commission was roughly $250—but she says the sale did bring some attention to the fire victims. “I got a phone call from a woman who lost everything. She was very appreciative.”

They did receive assistance from the Red Cross, she adds, but they still need more help. “I’ve reached out to local churches who have clothes and hopefully the victims can get the help some of the things they need.”

JCK