Hats, scarves, and socks are essential items that can make a big difference to a person experiencing homelessness. The same goes for toiletries, diapers, and formula. However, as important as each item is, they are often difficult to come by for homeless New Yorkers, especially when other needs, like food and shelter, are higher priorities. In-kind donations help alleviate some of the stress that comes with not having one or more of them. Which is great, but they do a lot more too.

Filling in Gaps

In-kind donations fill in gaps. A mother feels warm with her new hat and gloves while she walks to work on a frigid winter day. A man is confident going into a job interview because he had soap, shampoo, and deodorant. A child feels a little bit more normal in school with their new backpack, notebook, and pencil case. With these gaps filled, people are free to focus more on their journeys toward permanent housing.

In 2023, friends like you from 27 states across the country donated 21,240 in-kind items with an estimated value of $140,283! These items ranged from winter accessories, socks, and clothing, to personal care items and hygiene kits. Many of our generous donors also gave handcrafted items, containing special messages.

What’s more, funds saved because of donations went directly into our health care services. That means more medications for uninsured patients and more immunizations for children starting school.