Nov. 10, 2009
When nighttime temperatures drop and days cool down, many of the community's homeless end up on the streets without blankets, clothing and other necessities to keep them warm.
The city of Phoenix is asking for donations to help. Blankets, new or used (but clean and freshly laundered), are the highest priority. Clean warm clothing, such as long sleeve jackets and long pants, sweatshirts or sweatpants, warm hats and gloves, coats, underwear (new only), socks (new only), shoes and hygiene items also will be accepted.
The items above also are needed in children’s sizes for families. Additional needs are baby food/formula, diapers and children’s blankets.
These are the only items the city will accept. The items will be collected through March 19.
“The winter temperatures, especially at night, pose a risk to those individuals living on the streets,” said Councilman Michael Johnson, member, MAG Continuum of Care Regional Committee on Homelessness. “The items collected through a communitywide effort are essential to providing warmth and protection for people who are homeless.”
Donated items, which are tax deductible, may be delivered to any of the city's three Family Services Centers. Centers are located at: Travis L. Williams, 4732 S. Central Ave.; John F. Long, 3454 N. 51st Ave.; and Sunnyslope, 914 W. Hatcher Road. Large group or corporate donations can be arranged through the volunteer coordinator.
The donations will be distributed by local outreach teams from Basic Mission, Catholic Charities, Community Bridges (LARC), Health Care for the Homeless, HomeBase Youth Services, Set Free Ministry, Stand Up for Kids, Southwest Behavioral Health PATH Outreach, The Salvation Army Project HOPE, TERROS, and US Vets. Items also will be distributed to persons at the city's overflow shelter.
The program is coordinated by the city's Human Services Department, Community Services Division. For more information, call 602-262-4520.
Media Contact:
| Marcie Colpas | 602-262-6164 |
