United Way and Walgreens Host Supply Drive for Lafayette County’s Homeless

This Friday, June 19, the United Way of Oxford and Lafayette County (UWOLC) will be partnering with Walgreens to host the toiletries collection drive for Lafayette County’s homeless and indigent citizens.

This drive is all day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Walgreens on University Avenue. The shoppers can pick up any of the following items to donate at the store: soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, disposable razors, Q-tips, deodorant, hair brushes and female hygiene products.

The local United Way’s toiletries drive is in coordination with the Day of Action, a global movement observed by United Way everywhere.

Chelsea Herbert, a UWOLC staff member via Americorps VISTA, said, “This year we wanted to do something that would benefit a different population in our community. Other United Ways across the country have hosted toiletries drives with great results, so we took a page from their book and planned our own supply drive. We know that there is a great need for these items. Donations will go to several organizations, including Salvation Army and Interfaith Compassion Ministry, that regularly assist homeless and indigent residents.”

Last year, UWOLC, in partnership with LOU Excel by 5 Coalition, hosted a newborn packet “stuffing day.” Community members helped future new parents in Lafayette County by stuffing bags full of items such as board books, resource guides and safety supplies that would help young families.

There is no specific goal to reach in this drive. Herbert said, “We are grateful for whatever the community can provide. I would just like everyone to know of the great need for these donations of toiletries in Lafayette County.”

Callie Daniels is a staff writer for HottyToddy.com. She can be reached at callie.daniels@hottytoddy.com.