Variety of materials — from hygiene kits to reading glasses and new underwear — needed by March 29
The JFCS of the Suncoast is seeking donations of personal care items to give to homeless veterans as part of its Eighth Annual Stand Down event, scheduled for April 13 at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, the organization has announced.
More than 150 veterans are expected to attend the April event, a news release notes. Each will be handed “a backpack with daily essential items,” including hygiene kits, clothing, blankets and non-perishable food,” the release points out.
The following items are those JFCS is seeking, the release says:
- Reading glasses (variety of diopters).
- Hygiene kits — shampoo, comb, toothpaste, toothbrush, disposable razors, shave cream, soap and deodorant.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Nail clippers.
- First aid kits: Band-Aid adhesive bandages, Neosporin, Band-Aid brand gauze and hand-cleansing wipes.
- New underwear kits: Two each of the following: T-shirts, briefs or panties, and pairs of socks, sizes small to XL.
Donations are being accepted through March 29 at JFCS’ main campus office, which is located at 2688 Fruitville Road in Sarasota, the release says.
Donors are asked to call JFCS in advance at 941-366-2224, Ext. 121 or 125, to schedule a delivery date and time.
In addition to receiving “the daily essential backpack gifts,” the release continues, veterans will have access to a number of free professional services during the Stand Down event, the release points out. That assistance will focus on Veterans Affairs benefits, housing assistance, counseling and substance abuse referrals, emergency shelter options, criminal and legal aid, employment information, health care, details about Stand Down Court for case resolution and management, haircuts, manicures and showers, the release adds.
“The Sarasota Homeless Veterans Stand Down has evolved into a multi-faceted show of support from the community as well as local, regional and national organizations,” the release explains. “This year, more than 50 partner agencies will come together to help America’s heroes live healthier and more productive lives,” the release adds.
“Founded in 1986, JFCS of the Suncoast is a community-based, client-centric non-profit organization that gives help to the most vulnerable,” the release points out. “Fully accredited, JFCS works to provide holistic solutions and stability to people in crisis through mental health and social services.” JFCS serves more than 5,700 individuals each year in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, Collier and Lee counties, the release adds.
For more information, visit www.jfcs-cares.org or call 366-2224.