Did you know there are youth struggling on the streets of our community who spend each day just trying to survive? These youth left home or were forced out for various reasons, including LGBTQ+ youth being shut out or threatened due to coming out to their parents or caregivers. Once again, we at UUCP have an opportunity help local youth in need by providing warmth in the form of new personal-sized blankets as well as hygiene items.

The UUCP Social Justice Team is leading a blanket and toiletry drive to benefit the Street Outreach program of Children’s Home Society (CHS) of Florida. The program serves youth aged 14-22 by connecting them with services and resources so they can move from mere survival to hope, resilience, and success. Please consider donating a new personal-sized blanket and/or hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, and feminine products.

Items will be collected in a marked basket in the foyer of the church from Sunday, Nov. 6, through Sunday, Dec. 11. After church on Dec. 11, items will be delivered to CHS for distribution to youth throughout the winter.

For more information about CHS and the Street Outreach progrqm, visit this website: https://chsfl.org/services/for-teens/street-outreach/