Auburn’s United Way chapter is calling on Cayuga County residents to help collect 3,000 personal care items for local food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters.
The eighth annual Countywide Personal Care Drive will kick off during the Day of Caring on Thursday, August 7. Donation boxes will remain in place through Monday, October 13 at various sites across the county.
“Hygiene products are often not covered by assistance programs and are rare finds at local food pantries,” the release stated. “Community members are faced with having to choose between paying their utility bills or purchasing laundry soap, toothpaste, and toilet paper.”
The drive will accept items such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, razors, detergent, hand soap, toilet paper, and diapers. Food pantries have also requested facial tissues and dish soap due to growing demand.
Last year’s drive brought in 2,300 items that were distributed to 17 service sites. This year, United Way of Cayuga County hopes to reach a goal of 3,000 items with help from CAP and a network of community partners.
Donation sites can be found on the United Way website. Residents, clubs, employers, and other organizations are encouraged to host their own collections. The United Way offers support by promoting these efforts through its website, newsletter, and social media. A free donation box is available for pickup from the United Way office in Auburn, thanks to a contribution from Cases Unlimited.
The event is made possible through partnerships with CAP, Cases Unlimited, and dozens of sponsors, including Cayuga Lake National Bank, Wegmans, Nucor Steel, Classic Hits 99.3, and Auburn Community Hospital.
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