UPFDA and P.E.S.T. Relief International Partner to Deliver REST in Charleston

As part of UPFDA’s inaugural Charitable Partner Program, volunteers from across the organization joined forces with P.E.S.T. Relief International to actively participate in this hands-on service initiative.

UPFDA
UPFDA volunteers who worked on the REST Initiative in Charleston, S.C.
UPFDA

CHARLESTON, S.C. — P.E.S.T. Relief International, in partnership with the United Producers, Formulators & Distributors Association (UPFDA), carried out their REST Initiative in downtown Charleston, bringing comfort and relief to individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

UPFDA
UPFDA volunteers put together essential kits for the Star Gospel Mission clients

As part of UPFDA’s inaugural Charitable Partner Program, volunteers from across the organization joined forces with P.E.S.T.  Relief International to actively participate in this hands-on service initiative. UPFDA said the teams worked on-site to improve living conditions and provide critical resources to the Star Gospel Mission.

“We are grateful for the incredible support and collaboration from UPFDA,” said Andrea Hancock, founder of P.E.S.T. Relief International. “This initiative reflects what’s possible when industry professionals come together with a shared purpose – to protect, defend, and restore dignity to the destitute.”

UPFDA
From left, Susan Masciarelli with Web-Cote Industries and Jackie Angulo with Superior Angran, Inc. encasing new pillows

The REST Initiative focused on delivering both immediate and long-term impact. Activities included:

  • Preparing residential spaces for seasonal transition
  • Installing mattress encasements and pillow protectors for all residents
  • Installing bed bug detection systems
  • Assembling 125 essential kits for emergency intake residents and those who are not able to occupy the shelter.
UPFDA
From left, Ryan Klein, Bayer ITO and David Arney, Envu encase mattresses at the Star Gospel Mission

Star Gospel Mission has been serving the community since 1904, supporting men experiencing homelessness as well as families in need of essential services.  Through this initiative, P.E.S.T. Relief International’s efforts supported the Men’s Lodge, Greenhouse apartment complex, and the Morning Light program for mothers and children.  UPFDA said these efforts helped to provide protection, hygiene and peace of mind for the residents.

“Our first Charitable Partner Program volunteer initiative exceeded expectations", said Andrea Coron, executive director of UPFDA. "Having 21 UPFDA members on the ground in Charleston speaks to the passion and commitment within our organization. We’re honored to work alongside P.E.S.T. Relief International and look forward to building on this momentum to expand our impact in communities across the country.”

The association said the partnership between UPFDA  and P.E.S.T. Relief International demonstrates a shared commitment to meaningful community impact transforming service into tangible results for those who need it most.

For more information about UPFDA and its Charitable Partner Program, visit UPFDA.com/charitable.