The directors of L-S Together, a nonprofit organization serving as a resources hub for the Lampeter-Strasburg (L-S) School District, invite neighbors to fill wheelbarrows with household cleaners, first-aid supplies, and hygiene items - along with a hearty dash of optimism - as part of the Essentials Drive set for Tuesday, June 16.
The project has been assigned #hopebarrows on social media, as the goal of the Essentials Drive is to replenish the stock of two local food pantries so they can effectively serve their clients. Items collected will be dispersed between Mission Church, 651 Lampeter Road, Lancaster, and First Presbyterian Church of Strasburg, 101 S. Decatur St., Strasburg.
The Essentials Drive organizers hope that district residents will set wheelbarrows or other containers in front of their homes so that neighbors and loved ones are able to safely drop off donations. Then, on June 16, participants are asked to bring the items to Victory Church, 114 W. Franklin St., Strasburg, between 6 and 8 p.m. Families that live close to the church are invited to push their filled wheelbarrows to the trailer in front of the building, weather permitting. Individuals are also welcome to drive up to drop off items.
A list of desired goods has been created for the Essentials Drive. All items must be new and unopened.
"These items are in high demand and are costly to the families," explained L-S Together founder and coordinator Jenice Weaver. "For many of us, donating the (requested) items ... is fairly easy, but it's an important way to help people who cannot afford them on their own. These are items not allowed for purchase with SNAP benefits, even if you do need it to feel, look, and smell clean and to live in a clean environment."
Suggested donations for adults, teenagers, and children include shower gel, shampoo, hair conditioner, deodorant/antiperspirant, shaving cream, disposable razors, toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, feminine hygiene products, hand and body lotions, hand sanitizer, lip and body sunscreen, lip balm, nail polish and remover, makeup and remover, and nail clippers for hands and feet.
Household cleaning supplies include dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, bleach, furniture polish, disinfectant spray and wipes, rubber cleaning gloves, trash bags, and bathroom air fresheners, as well as cleaners for toilets, tubs, showers, floors, windows, stoves and ovens, and upholstery. Desired paper products include toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, and facial tissues.
The list of first-aid supplies suggests bandages, antibiotic ointment, burn cream, sunburn lotion, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, gauze, medical tape, and adhesive bandages. Also requested are medications in strengths appropriate for infants, children, and adults, such as pain reliever, decongestants, and medicines to treat cold, flu, coughs, allergies, and sinus irritations.
All types of batteries, including AA and AAA, are also sought.
"Especially at this time, we would love to see our neighborhoods come together and 'pioneer life together,'" Weaver remarked.
For more information about the Essentials Drive and #hopebarrows, readers may email office@lstogether.org.
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