By , Special to JTNews
For the past 13 years, the Seattle Jewish Coalition for the Homeless has been holding a winter toy and book drive. Although the drive has been successful from the giving point of view, it has become less well received by the beneficiary agencies. That’s because the agencies have needs that are at such a basic level that toys and books are almost a luxury.
This year, the coalition contacted the recipient agencies and asked, “What do you need?” In response, they heard a sound of surprise and gratitude that the Jewish community would be helping them at the most basic level.
What was the first thing most of them asked for? Diapers. Disposable diapers in all sizes. One of the agency directors relayed the story of parents who cannot afford diapers and don’t change their babies.
Hygiene supplies are also always needed.
The agencies for whose “wishlists” the coalition will be collecting are Atlantic Street Center, St. Joseph’s Baby Corner, Morningstar Homeless Family Support Center, Our Place Day Care Center and Childhaven.
The full wishlist includes: Disposable diapers in all sizes, digital thermometers, children’s underwear, heavy-duty sanitary napkins for post-delivery mothers, watercolors, primary color paints, school supplies, board games for all ages, educational games, children’s books, coloring and work books, toys for preschool through early elementary, ethnic soft-body baby dolls and games. For teens: backpacks, baseballs, bats, basketballs, footballs and gift certificates for McDonalds. Big-ticket items: Car seats and baby carriers
Collection dates are Feb. 3—March 1. Bring your donation to Temple Beth Am, 2632 N.E. 80th Street in Seattle’s Wedgwood area on Sunday mornings and Tuesday evenings. Call 206-525-0915 for additional hours.
For more information about the Wishlist Drive, e-mail Cecily Kaplan at [email protected]. For more information about the Seattle Jewish Coalition for the Homeless, call David Schwartz at [email protected].