Holding an items drive at your school, work, or church is one way you can help the homeless get the items they need. And putting together a drive may be easier than you thought!
1. Pick a date
First, you should decide dates you will accept donations. Choose a one- or two-week window that works for you.
2. Decide what you want to collect
Take a look at our most needed items. Narrowing your scope will make it easier for people to know what they should bring. Select a few items to collect and hold a drive for just those items. (Note: clothing is not currently needed unless specified on the list.)
Another option is you could get your friends to help you assemble hygiene care kits by filling a gallon plastic bag with some or all of these items: encouraging note or scripture, granola bar, trail mix/nuts, bottle of water, small pack of wipes, tissues, lotion, chapstick, pair of socks.
3. Start!
Place a box where you plan to collect items and label it with what type of donations you are seeking.
4. Advertise for your drive
Make sure that you inform everyone about your drive. Tell everyone what they can donate, where to bring it, and when to bring it by. Download and print a ready-to-go poster:
5. Share your drive with the Mission
Mission staff would love to share your drive on our social media. Send us a picture or arrange with Mission Staff to take one when you come to drop off your donations. Contact Rachel at contact@thelighthousemission.org.
Now you’re done! Bring the items to the Mission.
Please use the fenced parking lot off F and Astor Streets behind the Mission at 910 W Holly St. Ring the bell at the door and a staff or program member will come out to meet you. If you are bringing food items, please bring them to the kitchen on the South side of the Main Building at 910 W Holly St.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Rachel at contact@thelighthousemission.org or 360-733-5120 ext. 104.
