Usually in a shelter you’re dealing with traumatized women who no longer feel safe around men. Do they need safe men around to re-learn trust? Yes. Is the point of their first housing after fleeing an abuse situation under enough threat that qualify for a safe house the time for it? No. Most are female staff only.
Collect gently used clothing for donation. Many places can use just about all clothing, but I’ve heard requests for business appropriate or interview attire. Undergarments need to be new. Jewelry and accessories are often left behind, don’t forget these.
Collect gently used children’s toys (preferably not noisy ones).
Reach out to the shelter to find out if they have a preferred drop off time, or even better an off-site donation location. While you’re talking to them ask if they’re in need of anything else (food, tools, building materials, baby supplies, etc.)
Usually in a shelter you’re dealing with traumatized women who no longer feel safe around men. Do they need safe men around to re-learn trust? Yes. Is the point of their first housing after fleeing an abuse situation under enough threat that qualify for a safe house the time for it? No. Most are female staff only.
What you CAN do:
Collect gently used clothing for donation. Many places can use just about all clothing, but I’ve heard requests for business appropriate or interview attire. Undergarments need to be new. Jewelry and accessories are often left behind, don’t forget these.
Collect gently used children’s toys (preferably not noisy ones).
Reach out to the shelter to find out if they have a preferred drop off time, or even better an off-site donation location. While you’re talking to them ask if they’re in need of anything else (food, tools, building materials, baby supplies, etc.)