5 Things NOT to Donate to Homeless Shelters This Holiday Season

Are the things you're donating to the homeless really helping? Don't just guess. Check the list below to find out what things to stay away from this giving season.

It is in your hands to create a better world for all those who live in it. - Nelson Mandela

"As of January 2018, Utah had an estimated 2,876 [persons] experiencing homelessness on any given day.. Of that Total, 287 were family households, 239 were Veterans, 191 were unaccompanied young adults (aged 18-24) (www.usich.gov)." Here at Shine, we rally especially around youth. But as these statistics show, homelessness is all encompassing and gives no regard to age. This is a monster that many of us have the power and resources to defeat. And many of us are contributing! Especially when holiday morale is high. Statistics show that 30% of annual giving occurs in December and 10% of annual giving occurs the last 3 days of the year. But some items that are donated have been reported to do more harm than good. Typically, the people receiving these items get one shot for the whole season. By making better educated decisions on the items we are providing this season, we can be sure our donations are making a difference. Here are 5 things to stop donating (and a few suggestions on what you can).

1. Coats with broken zippers. In December, Salt Lake City (on average) gets down to 28 degrees. Being without shelter, exposed to the icy, frigid winds and snowy blizzards with a jacket that doesn’t zip.. that’s just cruel. Please make it decent and donate gently used or new coats and jackets.

2. Full / family size toiletry items. Items over 16 oz are bulky and heavy and often end up in the trash after one use, simply because they are unable to pack them around. Instead, donate unused travel size shampoos, conditioners, soaps, razors, lotion, etc. Preferably in individual bags and labeled.

3. Low maintenance food products. Handheld food that does not require plates, silverware, can openers, ovens or refrigerators work best. Many also have significant dental problems and cannot handle hard foods such as apples. (And always bring bottled water). Be conscious of what you are donating and the limitations of those you are serving.

4. Used / dirty clothes. These items also often end up in straight in the dumpster. Please wash and fold clothes, blankets and similar items, check that they are in good condition, and place in bags and label with sizes.

5. Small blankets. These people get one shot at receiving a blanket and ones that can’t fully cover them are pointless. Over 120 homeless persons died last year. Almost 100 of those were due to exposure. If you’re going to give blankets to adults, please give proper size ones.

Unable to donate these things? Fret not, donating your TIME also makes a huge difference! Spend time talking with them. Hug them. Recognize them. Hear and remember them. Be friendly. This goes such a long way. It may not be visible or tangible, but your presence and your love is high on the list of needs as well.

These people are our neighbors who, for whatever reason, have been forced to the streets. They are individuals with stories and backgrounds and so much potential. We have the resources to change their lives. Let's make more conscious donations this season to optimize their ability to fight these brutal beast... and win. #UpliftEmpowerEdify #ShineSLC