FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –We are thrilled to announce that during this year’s Shoebox Project, United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County distributed more than $100,000 worth of basic necessities to people in need.
Our Impact and Nonprofit partners requested thousands of shoeboxes filled with daily essentials like toiletries, hand sanitizer, toothbrushes, baby wipes, shampoo, tampons, deodorant and more. These everyday items may seem insignificant to most but access to them can be a challenge for many in our community.
The lack of these basic necessities can negatively affect an individual’s mental health and put their physical well-being at risk, especially for our community’s children, veterans, elderly and houseless populations.
More than 5,000 shoeboxes, many festively decorated by members of the public, were distributed to 28 local nonprofit agencies that have given them out to the people they serve. 39 different local corporations and more than 500 individuals volunteered to donate, pack and distribute shoeboxes throughout the community.
We would like to thank Shoebox Project sponsors Southwest Research Institute, Proctor & Gamble and H-E-B.
For the 14% of Bexar County households who earn less than the Federal Poverty Level and the 32% of households who make more than the poverty level but less than the basic cost of living for the county, these daily essentials are often some of the first things they sacrifice in order to survive. That means 46% of households in Bexar County cannot afford these items, which many of us take for granted. The Shoebox Project is our effort to bring peace of mind to these households by providing a helping hand.
“Many times we don’t realize how simple it is to give back to our communities,” said Shoebox Project volunteer Harold Huff, Major U.S. Army (retired) with the Young Men’s Leadership Academy. “After working with all of the generous donations provided to the United Way it gives perspective on how each of us in just a little bit of time can do a tremendous amount to help people in need.”
For graphics and images of volunteers assembling shoeboxes full of basic necessities, please check out our Shoebox Project 2023 press kit.
MEDIA CONTACT: Kevin Femmel, Director of Communications, kfemmel@unitedwaysatx.org, 210-836-8616
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About United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County
United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County launched its first campaign in 1940 and has grown into the largest private investor in health and human services programs in San Antonio and Bexar County. United Way focuses on preparing children for school and life, helping students graduate and succeed, strengthening the well-being of individuals and families, and providing safety net services. United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County also operates the 2-1-1 Helpline, Mission United and fosters volunteerism through the Volunteer Center at United Way. Check our newsroom online for more United Way news.
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Categories: Press Releases |
