There's no better time than the holidays to reach out and give back to your community and those less fortunate. Discover how to make blessing bags that count.
The holiday season is full of shopping, concerts, parties, and other activities.
But it's also when many of us want to help people in need. But giving to charitable organizations can feel impersonal.
That's not the case with Blessing Bags!
By helping members of your local community, you can be confident that your donations will reach the right people.
And be prepared to walk away with the feeling that you have received more than you've given!
How To Get Started
There are many ways to make blessing bags. You can include anything from toiletries and underwear to socks, games, and snacks. But first, you have to decide how you are going to deliver your Blessing Bags and how many you will be able to fit into your budget.
How are you going to wrap your gifts? I recommend using Zip Lock Bags. These are great for stuffing underwear, socks, or hats.
AND good ziplock bags are helpful to people who have very little and may need to protect what they do have from water damage or even just separating clean from dirty.
Another alternative 'wrapping method' is Reusable Water Bottles. My husband and I have done this during a summer giving drive, and they were very well received.
Next, you'll have to think about how to connect with the homeless community. If you belong to a church, chances are you'll have a mission or outreach committee working with local shelters.
If you are not a faith community member, contact nearby shelters and ask if they can advise you on how to get started.
Another option is to prepare a set number of bags and load up your car. Then, drive to an area where you know homeless people gather and hand out your blessing bags.
You can choose to make blessing bags as a family or organize your friends and coworkers. The time you spend carefully choosing practical or comfortable items is a blessing in and of itself!
It makes you put yourself into someone else's shoes for a little while. I always come away feeling happy gratitude for my life's blessings.
Planning your Blessing Bags
When deciding what to include in your Blessing Bags, try to balance necessities and something unique.
While some items, such as socks, are always needed, others might differ depending on your climate.
We try to think of things that provide dignity. For example, imagine not being able to change your underwear because you don't have another pair.
Think about having a runny nose and how valuable a pack of tissues would be. And think about not being able to wash your hands when you want to; this is why hand sanitizers or wet wipes are incredibly useful.
Now let's get specific. First, think about your budget. How much can you spend per person? How many people do you think you will be able to reach?
Again, if this is your first time, I recommend contacting a local shelter for advice.
Generally, you can lower the per-bag cost only by including snacks and toiletries.
Once you include clothing items such as Long John's or scarves, the per bag price will increase quite a bit.
Therefore it's essential to figure out what your budget is beforehand!
What to include in your Blessing Bags
You can make a difference in someone's day with a $5 Blessing Bag. You can make a difference in someone's week with a $30 Blessing Bag.
This is where getting together with a few other people can make a huge difference and increase your budget.
Necessities Items
- Welch's Fruit Snack Packs
- Goldfish Cracker Packs
- Granola Bars
- Chewing Gum
- Advil (travel packs).
- Band-aid Travel Pack. Cuts and scrapes are a reality of street life. Having a supply of bandages can fight off infection.
- Hand Sanitizers
- Hand Warmers
- Chapstick
- Sunscreen & Lotion. This will help with dry and cracked hands.
- Toothbrushes. A lot of times, dental care is not available to homeless people. Choose soft toothbrushes that are easier for sensitive or infected gums.
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Talcum Powder
- Playing Cards. The reality is that homelessness comes with boredom.
- Notepad and Pens
Clothing
Adding clothing items to your Blessing Bags is a great option. But before buying clothing, consider how many Blessing Bags are in your budget.
Also, consider that you'll probably want to buy several sizes. We've found that medium to extra large items is the most popular. But whenever possible, we also try to have a few XXL items.
- Socks. Typically the least expensive clothing item. And in our experience, socks are always appreciated. Make sure to buy trousers or knee-high socks (especially if you live in a colder climate). Avoid thin dress socks, shorter crew socks, and micro socks.
- Long Sleeve Shirts. If you have a bigger budget go for long sleeve shirts. Again, think dignity. Long sleeves are more protective, warmer, and hide potential marks.
- Underwear. This one is so important. Remember that a homeless person might not have regular access to laundry facilities. Having spares can make a difference.
- Long Johns. With homelessness comes the cold and braving the elements.
- Gloves. If possible, look for waterproof gloves.
- Scarves. Instead of buying scarves, you could also opt to knit them yourself. Maybe you have a family member who loves knitting. That can also be a great project to get your kids involved in.
Buying Tip - This is the time to buy in bulk. Compare pricing and look for sales whenever possible. If you're buying from a local store, try to speak with a manager and see if they will work with you on the price.
How to Organize Your Blessing Bags
Considerations
If you're planning to make blessing bags for homeless people, remember that storage will always be an issue.
Even if they are living in a shelter, they often don't have more than a locker to store their personal belongings. And most shelters require that their guests leave the facilities during the day.
Making blessing bags has become one of our favorite Christmas traditions. Of course, there are a million and one things to do during the holidays, but one of the most rewarding things you can do is to give back.
Sharing is Caring. Share Your Blessing Bags
I predict that you will be overwhelmed (and maybe even a bit embarrassed) by the reactions of gratitude. You won't change somebody's life, but you will make their day a little better.
Are Blessing Bags part of your family tradition? What are your favorite items to give? Let me know in the comments.
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