Long Beach launches donation drive to assist unhoused residents
In an effort to reduce homelessness in Long Beach, the City has launched a donation drive to collect essential physical items to provide to unhoused residents. The community is encouraged to participate by donating items to help those in need. This initiative is part of the City’s mission to assist the unhoused population in the area.
Mayor Rex Richardson said, “A little bit of kindness goes a long way, and this donation drive will provide essential everyday items to residents who are unhoused. I encourage those who are able to contribute to do so.”
The items can be donated at various locations, including Long Beach Public Library locations, the Boys and Girls Club of Long Beach, and the Scherer Park Community Center. A list of ideas for donated items that are needed and appropriate for donation includes hygiene kits or house-warming gift kits, backpacks with hand warmers, flashlights, battery packs, emergency blankets, and charging cables, pet care kits, gift cards, and clothing items such as sweatpants, shirts, socks, and underwear. Food items such as canned food, bottled drinks, snacks, instant oatmeal, and instant soup are also accepted, but perishable, unwrapped, and homemade food items will not be accepted.
The Multi-Service Center also accepts items upon request, and donors can call 562.570.4586 to set up a time to drop off items. Young people can participate by creating welcome home kits with some of the suggested items and including a special handwritten motivating message in the kit.
The City does not guarantee that any donations made to the City are tax-deductible. Donors are advised to work with their tax professional. Receipts of donations are available at all drop-off locations.
The initiative is part of the City’s efforts to reduce homelessness in Long Beach, and more information on the City’s actions to address the issue can be found on the City’s website, longbeach.gov/homelessness, and social media channels.
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