Making Homeless Bags

Over the past year, I have been approached by several homeless families while going about my busy life.  Unfortunately, I never have any cash to give them because I always use my debit card.   I started keeping gift cards to fast food restaurants and grocery stores in my car so that I would have something to give.

However, it is obvious that there is an urgent need for more than just a gift card.   And at
Thanksgiving, when it is undeniable that I have many blessings, I need to do more.  I am going to build Homeless Bags to keep in my car and to deliver to Homeless Shelters. 

Building Homeless Bags is a great way to get your family and kids involved in thinking about others and sharing your blessings!  I decided to start with all those samples that I receive from all the hotel stays from my journeys throughout the year and adding on things I can buy at the store:

I included Necessities and Essentials that we all need for normal everyday care, including socks, and feminine products.  I avoided razors, but tried to think about things we use every day:

• lotions
• shampoo
• conditioner
• deodorant
• toothpaste/brush
• antibacterial lotion
• socks**
• tampons**
• headache relief
• makeup / makeup remover
• lip balm
• pony tail holders
• tissues
• band aids 
• baby wipes

** listed as most wanted items by homeless

I also wanted to include nutritious, easy-to-pack, single-serving foods as well as fun things like cookies: nothing brings on a smile like an Oreo!  I tried to include foods that would be carried well in a backpack.

Suggestions for food items would be:

• raisins
• cheese/peanut crackers
• peanut butter
• breakfast bars
• apple sauce
• cookies
• tuna
• nuts
• chewing gum 
• beef jerky
• hot chocolate packets
• tea bags

I thought about those extras that might make a difference on a cold or wet day:

• hand warmers
• bags
• ponchos
• gloves 

For extra added help I included:

• roll of quarters
• fast food gift cards
• grocery store gift cards
• Wal-Mart gift cards
• drug store gift cards

After getting everything together, I divided it out based on male/female/anyone and loaded the goods into gallon size zip lock bags.

My plan is to keep these bags along with bottles of water in the car for those busy intersections where homeless frequently ask for assistance.  I know that as winter and holidays approach, this will be a much needed care package, so I will be delivering these to shelters as well.

Building homeless bags is a great way for you to talk to your children about the things we take for granted every day! 

I would love to hear how you and your family reach out with Homeless Bags and what extras you include!  Let me know!

kesselrunner77@gmail.com