The members of a Snyder County women’s group are hoping to turn a surplus of purses into boon for local food banks.

A purse swap meet, “Purses with a Purpose,” will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 21 at 400 South Front St. on the Isle of Que.

For every bag of non-perishable groceries brought to the event to support the food banks of the Snyder County Red Cross and the United Church of Christ in Selinsgrove, donors can pick a free purse from a selection of nearly new purses donated by members of the Preceptor Theta Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi in Selinsgrove.

“There was a need,” said Loretta Van Nuys, past president and service committee member of the sorority. With the event being held just before Thanksgiving, she said it is crucial that the shelves of local food banks do not remain bare so they will be able to meet the needs of those facing financial challenges throughout the holiday season.

The swap meet is the first of its kind for the social and community service-based sorority which has existed since the 1930s.

“I had too many purses,” Van Nuys said.

“We all did,” echoed member Paula Confer.

So the idea was simple and clear for its members, who are constantly looking for ways to help those in need.

“Hopefully it will be held annually,” Confer said.

Miche purses and Silpada jewelry will be on sale at the event, and refreshments will also be available for purchase. A percentage of the proceeds will support the food banks.