"Look out for your neighbors." Homelessness providers says. With the colder temperatures, it's a reminder that community donations and shelter volunteers are needed to help out this winter for those who are on the streets or staying in shelters.
“The question I’m asked the most isn’t about the things you might expect,” Multnomah County Chair Kafoury said during a press conference at Imago Dei Church, which for years has offered its gymnasium as emergency shelter space during the coldest nights of the year. “It’s, ‘What can I do to help?’”
“At this time of year,” when help “can make the difference between life and death,” she said,“the answer to that question is sadly quite easy: We need your winter gear and we need you to look out for your neighbors.”
Kafour and the Joint Office of Homeless Services say you can reach out to 211 to learn more about gear that is needed and where to donate.
They say the following items are most often requested:
• Thick socks (adult sizes)
• Waterproof/resistant gloves or mittens (preferably dark colors/black, adult sizes)
• Waterproof/resistant winter coats (men’s and women’s sizes)
• Sleeping bags and warm blankets
• Waterproof/resistant hats (preferably dark colors/black)
• Knit hats (preferably dark colors/black)
• Tarps (preferably brown, dark colors)
• Hand warmers
• Rain ponchos
