Homeless Care Packages

A few years ago I was lucky enough to meet a homeless man by the name of Alan when I was interning for a local Congressman. He changed my entire outlook on life and to him I will always be grateful. He was one of the smartest and most caring men I have ever met, however due to certain circumstances he was unable to take care of himself. We would meet once to twice a week to talk about life. I learned so much from him and he never asked for anything in return. One day Alan did not show up for our usual meeting and I never saw him again. I always wondered what happened to him and hope that he is doing okay. It is because of him and his amazing spirit that I developed a passion to help those in need with no judgment on my part. Everyone deserves a helping hand and to know that they are valued. In my experience it is the little things in life that make the biggest difference, whether it is spending time with an individual, providing them with food to fill their stomachs, or simply letting them know that you care. This is what I want to accomplish in the form of putting together homeless care packages. Not only is the cold weather approaching but also the holidays, and every person deserves to stay warm, full, and have a smile brought to their face.

I have given out Homeless Care Packages on a weekly basis for the last 10 months in the Austin area but want to do something really special now that the weather is changing and the holidays are approaching. I have never asked for anyone's help before in putting these together, but with the large amount of packages I want to put together I am in need of financial help. Below is a list of just some of the items I already include in the bags along with some new items that I think would be good for the upcoming season. This is what your money would be going towards. Thank you for any help that can be given!

Socks
Hand Sanitizer/Wipes
Kleenex Tissues
Travel products (deodorant, mouthwash, toothpaste, toothbrush)
Chapstick
Gloves
Warm hats/binis
Small gift cards to restaurants
Raisins
Band-Aids
PowerAde or Gatorade
Water
Juice boxes
Tuna/Chicken Salad
Peanut butter crackers
Small amounts of money
Toilet paper
Fleece blankets (Walmart has some cheap ones for $3)
Ponchos (Walmart has some for .99 cents)
Reusable cups
Plastic silverware
Cans of food with pop-top that require no cooking
Dog food for homeless with animals
Books or puzzle books
Deck of cards
Fruit cups
Ziploc bags to keep stuff for dry
Lotion
Scarves
Washcloths
Floss
Feminine products