Good things often come from unexpected places.  Take the Covid pandemic.  At its onset, TRU’s founder, Ruth Halpern, began using her creativity and ingenuity to help others: sewing masks for essential workers, making sandwiches for a local soup kitchen, making blankets for shelters, and volunteering in as many ways as she could. 

Through these activities, "The Donation Lady," as she is affectionately known, came into contact with a variety of people and organizations and developed a deeper appreciation of the many opportunities there were to volunteer and help the community. 

As a result of these experiences, Ruth decided to leave the corporate world and become a full-time volunteer. Joined by other committed people who shared her vision, TRU Partnership was born in November of 2021.

TRU Partnership provides essential and joy-enhancing goods and experiences to those in need.  Items such as toys, clothing, furniture and household items are sourced through donations, upcycling used items, and purchasing new ones. We work closely with individuals and other organizations to identify and fulfill needs. Dignity and joy are extremely important so we do our best to ensure that we not only meet recipients needs but also provide items they would choose themselves.

Our first donation was from a local synagogue which made a large donation of art supplies, teaching materials, student desks, kitchen items, toys, sports equipment and so much more. These items were distributed to schools, community centers and individuals. Since then, we have a steady stream of donations which are processed and distributed. In 2023, TRU Partnership distributed items totally over $800,000 in thrift store value.

While our main focus is on serving Camden, Burlington, and Gloucester Counties, our impact extends beyond geographic boundaries. TRU Partnership operates from donated office space in Voorhees, NJ. In keeping with our core values, many of our volunteer work sessions are held in our founder’s family room in Bellmawr, NJ.

One of our primary goals is to help people realize that everyone can make a difference. We are passionate about providing opportunities for others to participate in activities with us and see the impact their efforts can make.  

TRU Partnership is a 501(c)(3) organization and is supported fully by volunteers and donations.