We are looking to collect certain items to distribute to people experiencing homelessness in addition to what the shelters can provide. We aim to redistribute the excess already out there and not add to the waste so often generated by corporations in this country, particularly those in the fast fashion industry.
Most people experiencing homelessness need clean clothes. Living on the street can be difficult, as can maintaining hygiene due to the lack of access to showers and laundry facilities. Any items donated will be distributed through local shelters and other outreach programs. Any blank apparel items we can print on will be printed with the Cherry Willow Apparel logo and given to local retailers to raise funds in their community.
Winter clothing, especially in areas like Chicago and other midwest cities with large populations of people experiencing homelessness, is of enormous importance. Anything from thermal underwear to sweatshirts and jackets to gloves, hats, and boots is needed to survive the harsh winter. Please don’t think of donating these items only in the winter. When doing your spring cleaning, consider donating these items to us or your local homeless shelter. It goes a long way towards helping preparations for the winter when we can collect these items all year round.
The second largest need is personal care products, including sunscreen, hand/body lotion, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, menstrual care products, and hand sanitizer. Living outside and being exposed to the elements can have a tremendous impact on our skin. These items help people who are homeless take care of themselves and protect their skin from constant exposure to the elements. They also help ensure that they do everything possible to prevent infection or illness from exposure to germs and bacteria.
Third would be supplies to help people who do not do well in the shelter environment. Many people who are dealing with homelessness are also facing mental health issues, including anxiety. The shelter setting is often very crowded and loud, with a lack of privacy or space for yourself. Many people, especially those with anxiety or other social and behavioral issues, choose to camp instead of living in a shelter. To help support these people, everything from backpacks to sleeping bags, tarps & tents is a huge help. For someone to make progress on their mental health, they have to be in an environment that they feel safe in. Ensuring we help provide the people who need space with the goods that enable them to create a safe space for themselves will go a long way toward helping them work on their mental health issues.
Please share this with anyone looking to help people experiencing homelessness, as many of the donations to Goodwill, Salvation Army, and similar companies end up in their retail stores rather than directly going to someone in need. We are also looking for local businesses that are willing to partner with us to be donation centers for those who would like to donate until such a time when we can set up a warehouse. If you are a business owner or know someone who would like to help support people experiencing homelessness while generating some additional foot traffic for their business, please contact us.
