How to organize your own
SAFE-AT-HOME
HYGIENE KIT BUILD
A Guide!
STEP 1: Connect with a Service Partner
Who is going to distribute your kits? Find an organization in your area that is doing street outreach! If you don't already have an organization in mind, start by searching "homeless services near me" and check out their website.
You'll want to email the volunteer (or development) coordinator to confirm what people experiencing homelessness need right now, and find out if they have any guidelines (ie: Don't include food in your kits OR our participants prefer opaque bags). Read their website before emailing! The information might already be there.
Sample Email to Volunteer Coordinator:
Hi! My name is [NAME HERE] and I'm working building hygiene kits for [ORGANIZATION NAME] but before I begin, I wanted to see if there are any specific items I should or shouldn't include.
I'm planning on including:
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Shampoo
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Conditioner
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Lotion
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Soap
-
Comb
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Pair of Socks
-
Body Wipes
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Toilet Paper
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Toothbrush
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Toothpaste
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First Aid Kit (Bandages, Antibiotic Ointment)
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Granola Bar
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Bottled Water
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Note of Encouragement
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COVID-19 Information
Polaroid by @katherineleon
People-first Language
The language we use and the labels that we place on individuals are powerful. We prefer people-first language, which focuses on the person, rather than their circumstance.
Instead of "homeless people" we prefer "people experiencing homelessness."
We also often use the term "unhoused neighbors."
STEP 2: Budget
We've already done a lot of research on finding the best prices. Often, this means buying in bulk. We've created a Hygiene Kit Calculator so you can decide how many kits you can afford to build.
1. Open the Hygiene Kit Calculator
2. Go to File / Make A Copy
3. ONLY alter the highlighted fields! We've done the math for you.
4. Check out the second page of the sheet for additional items to consider adding to your kits, or commonly requested items from service partners.
You'll notice, the more kits you make, the lower the price per kit!
STEP 3: Fundraise & Advertise!
Now that you know your fundraising goal, let your community know what you're doing, and ask them to pitch in to make it happen! This is where you can really get creative: You can create graphics for free on Canva, send an email to your co-workers, or talk your project on your Instagram Stories
You can accept donations from friends via Venmo or by setting up a GoFundMe.
Remember, not everyone knows what a hygiene kit is, or why it's important. ("What's a Hygiene Kit?") Check out resisterhoodLA's social media posts for inspiration.
What's in a Hygiene Kit?
Our Hygiene Kits Contain:
Shampoo, Conditioner, Lotion, Soap, Comb, Pair of Socks, Toilet Paper, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, First Aid Kit (Bandages, Antibiotic Ointment, Alcohol Wipes), Body Wipes, Granola Bar, Bottled Water, Note of Encouragement, COVID-19 Postcard
Additional Items to Consider:
Menstrual Products, Chapstick, Sunscreen, Mouthwash, Deodorant, Razor, Shave Cream, Individual Hand Sanitizer (When available)
STEP 4: Purchase Items &
Write Notes of Encouragement
Once you've reached your fundraising goal, you can purchase your items. While you wait for them to arrive, start writing your notes of encouragement!
ENCOURAGEMENT INSPIRATION:
You are loved
Because you matter
You are worthy
From someone who cares about you
Sending so much love today & every day
Thinking of YOU
Have a great day
Hoping today brings you happiness
Never give up
Sending thoughts and smiles to encourage you today
Good morning, beautiful!
Sharing LOVE
I care about you
Shine on!
You are not alone
I made this especially for you
STEP 6: Build & Deliver
Your Kits
The time has arrived to build your kits! Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly. Consider wearing gloves and a mask if you have them.
Build each kit with care. Document your experience and inspire others!
Once you are done, we recommend quarantining your kits for 72 hours before delivering them to your service partner. This will ensure safety for everyone! Let your service partner know you're ready to deliver and follow their guidelines for donation drop-off.
We'd love to hear about your experience. Please tag us @resisterhoodLA so we can see (and celebrate) your kit build!
