“justsayHELLO” But, how?
This is the third post in a series offering thoughts on engaging with our neighbors in need. This post includes some ideas for putting together Care Kits which can be another way to help out and share a little love and compassion!
When my time and finances allow, I build small care kits to distribute to folks in need.
I like to include:
-Several protein bars and other healthy snacks. (It’s a good idea to find things that are easy to chew because dental issues are common for people who’ve been without healthcare for a long time.)
-At least a few individually wrapped candies (chocolate when the weather is cool enough)!
-Individual packets of Kleenex and/or bandanas
-Hand sanitizer and small packet of baby wipes
-Toothbrush/small toothpaste/floss
-Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, deodorant and lotion - travel size)
-Washcloth
-Small packets or containers of ibuprofen/acetaminophen/pepto
-Small first aid items: bandaids, alcohol wipes, antibiotic ointment, q-tips
-These days, a few face masks
-Socks
-Stocking caps, hand/toe warmers and gloves when the weather is cold
-Sunscreen when it’s hot
-Maybe a small can or two of meat (such as tuna) or individual peanut butter containers
-A couple of lunch-sized fruit containers
-Sometimes a small notebook, or sketchbook and pens/pencils, or a paperback book
-I keep a separate bag of feminine hygiene products to add when appropriate
-Sometimes I will put a few cups of dry dog food into plastic bags to give out to the pooches I come across
-Any other small items I come across that I think I might appreciate if I was in their shoes
-I like to include a little cash (or gift card)
It also never hurts to ask people what would be helpful to include if you get the opportunity, and let their responses guide you. I keep my eyes open all year for these types of items on sale, and stock up when I can. Buying in bulk can help offset the costs, and Dollar stores can be a good source, too, but be careful to check for quality.
I pack the items into a large zip-lock plastic bag to keep them dry and include a few extra plastic shopping bags (for trash or that washcloth when it’s wet). I also add at least a couple of clean black garbage bags rolled up, which don’t take up much space and can be used in many helpful ways: to put a sleeping bag into to keep it dry; to place under a sleeping bag so moisture from the ground doesn’t seep in; to place on top of a sleeping bag to help keep the rain off; or to use as a rain poncho. (Keeping your belongings dry is always a challenge when you live outside in the PNW!)
The care kits go into my car, or I might hand them out personally at an encampment, or I donate a bunch to the Window of Kindness or a local mutual aid pop-up. I also try to keep bottled water on hand to distribute with the care kits; refillable containers (BPA free!) are even better if you find them on sale. Water is always important, but especially in summer months!
Anyone out there have other ideas?
Shared in the loving spirit of this community,
Shelli, a Facing Homelessness Board Member
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you’re moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the ‘donate’ button and consider a gift that is meaningful to you--even a “monthly recurring” donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#justsayhello #facinghomelessness #kindness #TheBLOCKProject
Just Say Hello