Annual Falls Twp. Touch A Truck Event Sets New Fundraising Record

September 11, 2023

The sixth annual Falls Township Touch a Truck fundraiser took place over the weekend and raised a record amount for charity.

The 2023 event set a new fundraising record and collected $26,850 for The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation, a nonprofit that helps families in the region when they experience hardship.

The Touch a Truck committee (back, from left) Fire Marshal Rich Dippolito, Public Works Director Jason Lawson, (front, from left) Parks and Recreation Director Brian Andrews, Supervisor Jeff Boraski, Theresa Katalinas, Supervisor Erin Mullen and Parks and Recreation Coordinator Erin Long presents a check to Ellen and Michael Barkann of The Barkann Family Healing Hearts Foundation.

In addition to funds raised through sponsors, Fire Marshal Rich Dippolito integrated a non-perishable food collection drive into the event.

The Saturday show had an expansive collection of vehicles to date, including large trucks, excavators, emergency response units, and construction machinery, among others.

In 2022, the fundraiser garnered $20,200 for the charity, which is led by NBC Sports host Michael Barkann. The popular commentator was at the Falls Township event.

Township officials said the Touch a Truck event has donated over $85,000 to the foundation over the years.

The Falls Township Touch a Truck event was organized by Falls Township Supervisors Vice Chairman Jeff Boraski and the Falls Township Parks and Recreation Department.

A highlight of the day was a raffle organized by Falls Township Public Works Department: a child-sized truck.

Public Works Director Jason Lawson confirmed plans for a similar giveaway at next year’s event.