Recently our Kids in Service NH group came together to make Homeless Bags and Dignity Bags for a local homeless shelter. All of the bags included necessary items to help with hygiene and comfort. The children made cards with uplifting messages and drawings for each bag so that the recipient would know that they are special.
The Dignity Bags that we packed (I did this project with older children) were so appreciated. I spoke with one woman who said that being homeless is tough enough but being a homeless woman is really challenging. Homeless shelters do not always have feminine products available. These are not items that are donated often and there is such a demand for them.
Making bags for the homeless is one of my favorite service projects to do with a group. We were able to make 32 bags when we did this project. Each family was in charge of bringing a group of items (32 granola bars etc.) and we split up the more expensive items. Below you will find some suggestions for items for your bags. Many of these items can be collected on hotel stays (shampoo, soap, lotion etc.). You need not include all of the items below, these are just some ideas.
Item Ideas for a Homeless Bag
large plastic bag (gallon size)
pair of socks
bar of soap (with a small plastic bag so they can store the used soap for future showers)
travel bottle of shampoo
toothbrush and toothpaste
granola or cereal bars
chapstick
wash cloth
hand wipes
travel bottle of hand lotion
comb
a sweet treat (be careful to include items that won’t melt if it is summer)
A Note or Drawing of Encouragement
Item Ideas for Feminine Dignity Bags
All of the Items Above
women’s underwear
feminine products
razor and shaving cream
Things not to Include
Anything that Includes Alcohol (hand sanitizer, mouthwash, perfume etc.)
Anything that is expired or that will spoil quickly
Kids in Service 