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Advice for making Christmas Bags for the homeless?
I want to organize my friends to make small gifts for the homeless. We don't have much money, but I want to make something that feels homemade and welcoming (something that you would give a friend). I was thinking of giving socks, mittens, or a hat with homemade treats ( like cookies) and a hand-made card. I just want to give something small that will brighten their day :) Is this good enough or is there something better I can do?
I live around Southern California and it is legal in my area to give food to the homeless. I can put an ingredients list of all the treats that are in there for allergies and dietary restrictions. I researched "blessing bags" and I also read an article ( by Lily Rayne ) that explains the flaws. The article said that it can be condescending to assume that they need hygiene products and that they can just go to a donation center and pick out what they need. So instead I just want to give something that you would give someone else.
Is this a good idea? Or should I not make homemade food and instead use store bought treats or something else?
3 Answers
- Anonymous5 years agoFavorite Answer
Those are nice ideas, but I disagree with Lily Rayne. In fact, I find her article somewhat condescending! The things homeless folks need the most are things you (and a friend you would give a gift) take for granted: toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, "sanitary" products for women, toilet paper. You can get most of this in travel sizes, which will not break your budget or make your bags too big (you can substitute wet wipes and/or travel size Kleenex for the TP). The handmade things are nice, too, I think you should include some things that are in short supply on the streets, especially in a big city like Los Angeles. Your efforts will not go unappreciated, despite what Raynes says.
One thing I do agree with her about is that the best gift is often cash, but that may be beyond your financial resources.
- 5 years ago
Oh, this is a WONDERFUL idea!
Homemade is better than store-bought, but just keep cost in mind; homemade will make homeless people feel better, but you will probably be able to help more people with cheaper store-bought gifts!
Just understand that it's amazing to do what you're doing!
- Serene ELv 75 years ago
Socks, mittens, underwear, are all good ideas. I think that's wonderful.
Good luck!!
