It’s never too early to think of helping others during the holidays, says a group collecting items and funds for Christmas Bags of Hope for Tri-Cities homeless.
Jessa Turner, Sam Leung and Sandra Klassen are reaching out to members of the community to collect enough toiletries to fill 100 bags — enough for everyone living at the 3030 Gordon shelter and transition housing operation in Coquitlam.
“This is year five and we are hoping people will be generous once again so we can get those bags filled,” said Jessa Turner, who started the fundraiser.
Among the items sought to fill the bags are: toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, lip balm, cough candies, tissues, ponchos, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants, socks, underwear, gloves, hot mitts, toque, scarf, pads/tampons and some healthy snacks.
The group has a Facebook page with 300 participants and a GoFundMe page to get the word out and is hoping to spread the word even wider because the need is great and the gift recipients are so appreciative.
Turner said the items will packed in bags and delivered to each shelter client. Typically, the group goes door to door in the facility, meeting with each person to hand out the gifts.
“It’s nice to have that personal touch,” said Turner, who says the distribution takes 2.5 hours, including the time it takes to hear individual stories.
“Everyone is so thankful,” she said.
The hope is to pack the bags by mid-December so the rush is on to collect the necessary items. Visit Facebook and search for Christmas Bags of Hope to stay up to date. Turner can also be reached at jessaturner11@gmail.com
