06/01/2021
As we enter the Summer months and the extreme heat that brings here in Central Florida, we want to remind you of our “Blessed Backpacks” program. At CCAP we prepare backpacks filled with hygiene products and non-perishables. Once filled we pray over them believing they are a blessing received by those who need them most.
If you’d like to help fill a backpack, these are some of the items needed for Summer.
Bottled water. Also needed are Gatorade, Powerade, and other electrolyte drinks.
Juice boxes for kids. These are also great to give to diabetics who may need a sugar boost.
Reusable water bottles or canteens. This helps them carry water with them all the time. Reusable water bottle styles with lanyards or hooks that can attach to their belt loop are best.
Feminine hygiene products. Pads, tampons, pantyliners, and even baby wipes for easier cleanup are all needed consistently year round.
Small packages of baby wipes are easier to pass out and for those in need to store on their person.
Summer skin protection. Bug spray, sunscreen, aloe vera gel, and anti-itch creams or ointments like Calamine, Afterbite are all a huge help.
Pet food. Many individuals have dogs for companionship and protection. In fact, many find a stray dog comes to them when they are on the streets. Pet food is always a great donation as some homeless will simply share their meals with their pet.
Non-perishable snacks: Beef jerky, beef sticks, trail mix, nuts, granola bars, and cereal bars are all easy to eat and don’t require refrigeration.
Children’s fruit snacks are also a great addition for kids and for those who need a sugar boost for blood sugar reasons. Avoid products with chocolate that could melt in the heat.
Reusable grocery bags. A cloth bag is nice, but waterproof is best. We love the collapsible bags that can be tucked into a pocket when not in use.
First aid kits. Small portable options with basic bandages, antibiotic cream, alcohol wipes are needed.
Sewing kits. Small sewing kits with needles, variety of thread, and even patches for worn clothing are often wanted.
OTC medications. Tylenol, Advil, Benadryl, Tums, and even Multi-Vitamins are often requested.
Umbrellas. They are good for rain, but also to provide shade in the heat of summer.
Socks and underwear. In summer, ankle socks are more popular.
Handheld battery operated fans. These are often found near the checkout counter or in dollar stores for $1-$2 each.
Batteries. Any and all sizes, with a focus on AAA and AA for use in things like fans, small radios, and similar.
Fresh fruit or vegetables. A bag of apples, oranges, bananas, or other easy to pass out fruit are always welcomed. Small packages of things like carrots are also nice to have and hand out.
Your time. If you don’t have a budget to purchase items, you may be able to give your time. Helping organize their pantry, answer the phone, do filing, clean the building, or even landscaping, if you are equipped to do so can all be a huge blessing!