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Care Kits for Houseless Folks
Care kits contain essential relief items for people living homeless. Things like clean socks, a rain poncho, a hand warmer or gloves, bath wipes, and snacks offer comfort to someone living outdoors in difficult conditions. When you give care kits, you are showing kindness and compassion for a fellow human being going through difficult times and enduring cruel living conditions.
People experiencing homelessness are in most need of the following items. You should not include literature, medications like Tylenol or Advil, or liquid hand sanitizer. If you buy the items in bulk, you can make 20 kits for around $200.
All Year Hygiene Care Kit
Fill a zippered gallon-size plastic bag containing travel or trial-sized of some or all of the following: (No paper bags. Why? Paper falls apart easily. Zippered plastic bags can be reused.)
- Bar of soap
- Band-aids (big ones to cover blisters)
- Neosporin or antibiotic ointment
- Wet wipes or bath wipes
- Deodorant
- Cotton swabs
- Lotion
- Lip balm
- Nail clippers
- Pair of socks or t-shirt (new and large adult size are the most needed)
- Rain poncho
- Wrapped snacks (must be easy to chew)
Depending on the time of year, you could also include items like mylar blankets, sunscreen, or hand warmers.