GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — For the next two weeks, the Heart of West Michigan United Way is collecting toiletries and cleaning products to help those in need.
The organization's Bring the Basics Collection drive hopes to receive things like toothpaste, soap and laundry detergent to share with our neighbors who need them.
The drive began Monday, March 11 and continues through March 22.
Because assistance programs like SNAP doesn't cover essential items like toilet paper, bathroom cleaner, paper towels, deodorant and shampoo, this collection effort is helping bridge that gap.
"For a lot of these items for families, they are really struggling to meet basic needs. And these are working families who are working hard, but by the end of the month, there's really not that much left over in the paycheck. So for these items, it really can add up, especially with the cost of inflation," Heart of West Michigan United Way Director of Special Events and Public Relations Maribeth Groen said.
"So, it's really essential for families to have cleaning supplies, to keep their home safe. And then for personal care items. It really helps with the dignity. If you can imagine a child going to school that doesn't have personal hygiene products, it can really affect their self-esteem."
You can always make a monetary donation online.
Drop Off Locations
From March 11 through March 22, you can drop off items at any Macatawa Bank location or the following coffee shops:
Common Ground
1319 Fulton St. E
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Field and Fire Cafe
820 Monroe Ave NW #100
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge
100 Commerce Ave SW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Scorpion Hearts Club
1035 Wealthy St SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
United Way's Amazon Wish List
If you're not able to physically go to the store, pick up some items and then drive to drop them off in person, there are other options to help.
You can buy items online from the United Way's Amazon Wish List here.
Benefiting Organizations
Family Promise
The Other Way
Helping our Adolescents Prosper (HOAP)
If you and your family or someone you know is struggling to meet their basic needs, you can call 211 to be connected with a local pantry and other resources for help.
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