WHY this exercise? You see, while we do everything that we can do within the constraints of the parameters of our fund-ers which is specific to providing housing resources, we invariably run into challenges around connecting our homeless and newly re-housed households with these key items that are truly necessary in the maintenance of our personal selves as well as the healthy keeping of our homes.
For families in emergency shelter or newly re-housed households – toiletries, diapers and cleaning supplies are very helpful, while travel size soaps, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes and razors (more portable items) are more appropriate for homeless individuals.
This is a great collection project for schools, churches, neighborhood groups, office groups, company wide initiatives or the coupon queen/king who can obtain any of these items with very short money.
Beyond food, there are other, much-needed items such as….
Toiletries – Shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, deodorant, tampons, sanitary napkins, razors, brushes, combs, etc.
Household paper goods – Toilet paper, napkins, paper towels
Household Cleaning Supplies – Glass cleaner, bathroom cleaner, bleach, ammonia, surface cleaner, mops, dust pans/brush, brooms, cleaning bucket, sponges
Do you have any ideas? Please, do post them!
Arrangements for food donations should definitely be made in advance so the organizations can plan for the use of resources
1. Living Waters Center of Hope
2. Community Teamwork, 17 Kirk St. Lowell
2. Pathfinder – 94 Rock St. Lowell (978) 458-3387
3. Lowell Transitional Living Center
All donations are tax deductible
Questions about what you can do?
Call Kristin (978) 654-5617 or email kross@comteam.org
Merrimack Valley Regional Network to End Homelessness Blog 