United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County received donations of $100,750 in basic necessities like toothpaste, toiletries, soap and other products that have been given to residents in the community.
As part of the 10th annual Shoebox Project, donors assembled and decorated more than 5,000 shoeboxes, each full of daily essentials that will provide families with relief from the cost of these items.
46% of all Bexar County residents are living paycheck to paycheck, which makes items like these critical for their personal stability. The absence of these daily essentials, which many of us take for granted, can have a negative impact on the mental and physical health of thousands of residents.
“The lack of these basic necessities, many of which we take for granted, can negatively affect an individual’s mental health and put their physical well-being at risk,” said Jennifer Quintero, Director of Community Engagement for United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County. “These shoeboxes provide a helping hand and a little peace of mind to our community’s children, veterans, elderly and houseless populations.”
Residents received the following useful items in each shoebox: Baby wipes, conditioner, shampoo, deodorant, hair brushes, hand sanitizer, tampons, toothbrushes, toothpaste and more. These basic comforts remain a luxury for many San Antonio children, veterans, elderly, houseless and vulnerable populations and each shoebox provided an important respite for each recipient.
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial hardship, difficulties with housing, food insecurity or other challenges to stability, please call United Way’s 2-1-1 Helpline. It is available 24/7/365, is anonymous and completely free. Trained call specialists guide callers on where to find resources that can provide relief barriers to success so they can get back on their feet.
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Categories: Volunteer |
