Sometimes, we forget how blessed we are that we have a roof over our heads for our families and a warm bed to sleep in.
For the homeless, this isn’t often the case. It’s for that reason, that today’s blog post focuses on simple homeless care packs, or blessing bags, as I like to call them, filled with essential items. This is something that I like to put together from time to time and pass on to homeless people who have very few personal items.
Sadly, we live in hard times. Many people are struggling to stay afloat and there has been a massive surge in homelessness not only in America but around the globe.
These packages help people in need!
Ideas For Homeless Care Kits
You can pack these with all sorts of goodies that will benefit the homeless, from food to toiletries as well as essential clothing, like warm hats, hand warmers, jackets, and rainwear, for example, especially during cold weather during the winter months
These helpful items can provide that little bit of comfort, and you can hand them out at soup kitchens during a hot meal serving, at the homeless shelter, or pass them on to volunteers who work with the homeless to distribute on your behalf.
There are a ton of ideas here, and you don’t have to use them all. Just know that whatever you put in your homeless blessing bags will help a person in need, even if it’s just the essentials.
Here’s a handy checklist of items to consider when putting a homeless care package together.
Clothing items for Winter
- Socks
- Underwear
- Jerseys
- Jackets
- Track tops and pants
- Hoodies
- Poncho
- Gloves
- Scarves
- Rainwear
- Shoes
- Hats (particularly beanies)
- Blankets
- Tarp
- Umbrella
Clothing items for summer
- Breathable socks
- Breathable underwear
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Track tops and pants
- Hoodies
- Sun hats
- Lightweight shoes
- Sunglasses
- Lightweight raincoats (if you live in a summer rainfall area)
Personal Care Items
- Shaving cream
- Disposable razors
- Wet wipes
- Tissues
- Toilet paper
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Soap
- Hand lotion
- Lip balm
- Feminine Hygiene products (including tampons or pads)
- Band-aids
- Bandages
- Washcloth
- Brush/Combs
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
- Deodorant
- Nail Clippers
- Antibiotic ointment
- OTC painkillers
- OTC cough mixture
Other items
- Backpacks
- Tote bags
- Garbage bags
- Ziplock bags
- Purse/Wallet
- Pet food
Non-perishable Food Items
- Cracker packs
- Fruit cups (non-refrigerated option)
- Bottled water
- Juice boxes
- Trail mix
- Tinned food (with a can opener)
- Dried fruit
- Beef jerky
- Gum or mints
- Granola bars
- Hard candy
- A variety of snacks
- Plastic spoon, fork, and knife
- To show true compassion, don’t forget an encouraging note. In particular, I like to include a bible verse too.
More Care Packages
Everyone could use a little extra love and care and you’ll find some great ideas for sending a gift box to just about anyone here!
- It is also fun to send a box of sunshine!
- Church Camp
- Sleep Away Camp
- College Students
- For Friends (free printable gift tags)
- Get Well Package for kids and teens to help them feel better soon!
- Need to cheer someone up? This Good Vibes Care Package will make someone’s day.
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