There is a local civic organization that is putting together Blessing Bags for distribution to the area’s homeless.  Each participating person was asked to contribute what they could.  The items needed are:

24 travel-sized shampoos

24 travel-sized conditioners

24 bars of soap

24 washcloths

24 individually wrapped toothbrushes

24 travel-size toothpastes

24 combs

24 travel-size tissue packs

24 travel-size bandage packs

24 deodorants

24 pairs of socks

24 travel-size cotton swabs

24 hot hand warmer packs

Since January in Pennsylvania can be cold, I went with the hand warmer packs.  Socks are also a fantastic donation this time of year, as they can help our neighbors have warm, dry feet.  This would be a terrific project for any group or individual this time of year.  The winter is brutal on those who are in need.

The American Red Cross is putting together “Totes of Hope”.  Volunteers are collecting personal care items that will be packaged into Resiliency Backpacks for homeless veterans as well as items for Move-In Kits for formerly homeless vets who are transitioning into housing.  The American Red Cross is collecting toothbrushes/toothpaste, socks, underwear, deodorant, t-shirts, hand warmers, washcloths, soap, shampoo, conditioner, outerwear, scarves, gloves, hats, blankets, boots, earmuffs, razors and individually-packaged snacks.  They are asking for donations of only new items, please.  It is important that people be treated with dignity, no matter what their situation.  For more information, go to http://www.redcross.org.  When I went on the Red Cross site, there was a message that there is a critical need for blood donations.  If you donate by January 19, 2020, you are eligible to win a trip to the Super Bowl.  That is something to think about.  Several years ago I helped out two nuns who worked to put together a furniture bank for the formerly homeless who were transitioning into housing.  These two sisters were so inspiring and positive!  They felt that each person or family deserved a table and chairs, a bed, and kitchen utensils.  They went all over the place, collecting things that could be used for a hand-up.  You know, when you extend a hand in kindness, it comes back to you tenfold.

Let’s make 2020 the year we each work to make the world a better place, in actions large and small.  We can change our corner of the world.

Happy New Year,

Cindy

 

“Some people care too much.  I think it’s called love.”                          A. A. Milne