(c) Bright Mind Enrichment and Schooling 2024; Bright Mind, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Powered by interserver.net | Terms & Policies
The useful care items for someone living on the streets are listed below. Have additional ideas? You can always expand on our list.
Cost-free, simple gestures can help foster meaningful connections.
What you can donate
Personal Hygiene
Soap should be fragrance-free, since sensitivities and allergies are very common. Make sure any hand sanitizers do not contain alcohol. Toothpaste and toothbrushes also make practical and useful donation items.
Water
Finding portable water can be difficult for individuals experiencing homelessness. Bottled water is widely sold, affordable, and portable, making it a great donation item.
Socks/Clothing
These garments are daily essentials through all seasons, and yet we often take them for granted. Socks are especially crucial. They are affordable, easy to find and overall great item to include.
First Aid
Infections prevention and first aid care are essential, especially for people impacted by homelessness. Donate sealed, clean items like bandages, wipes, ointments, and nail care kits to protect those in need. Avoid packing alcohol-based products.
Healthy Snacks
Nonperishable and nutritious snacks such as nuts, dried fruit, applesauce, pretzels, and breakfast bars, are best. Foods with high protein are important. Fruit is good. Try to include some items that are easy to chew for individuals without access to dental care. Remember to pack food items separately from any scented sanitary products.
Feminine Hygiene
Tampons and pads are necessities, and yet something that many experiencing homelessness struggle to obtain every month. Consider different needs such as heavy, moderate , and light flow.
Print-Friendly Version
Feel free to take screenshots or download them onto your phone if you prefer.
See What Others Are Doing
On your daily commute, you can use jugs or repurposed containers for water, or add lemonade mix, or tea bags, etc.
The best way to engage with homeless people is while you’re preparing to serve these items with them.
Dedicating even just 3-5 minutes of daily help can make a bigger difference than a single 10-hour volunteer day.
No fancy equipment or big budgets needed…just the willingness to connect and share!
Share winter items: hand-warmers, gloves, scarves and hats.
Combs, Washcloths
Men and women’s underwear are often difficult for homeless people to find. You can bring a supply in several sizes.
Bus passes are often needed by people on the streets.
Consider stores to donate items. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we can work with local stores to have items donated.
Restaurants may be willing to share leftover food or drink items for distribution. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we can work with local stores to have items donated.
