As June gets underway, so does United Way of 1000 Lakes’ annual Health and Hygiene Drive to help children, veterans, and elderly, homeless, and vulnerable residents across the Itasca Area.

In its eighth year, the United Way program aims to support families and individuals in crisis or struggling to make ends meet, who may lack access to hygiene items such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste.

As households face new financial strain brought on by the COVID-19 health and economic crisis, many are left choosing between buying the everyday essentials they need or paying for other necessities like food, medication, daycare, and transportation. Additionally, gas cards, toilet paper, cleaning supplies, diapers, and feminine products are becoming highly requested by those in need.

Throughout the month, community members are encouraged to start a collection or deliver items to any of the collection sites, which include Woodland Bank (Hill City), Klockow Brewing Company, and the Itasca Restore. United Way is also offering curbside pick up from their offices (350 1st Ave NW, Grand Rapids) on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To make arrangements call 218-999-7570 or email info@uwlakes.org. Products can also be donated through Amazon, Target, and Walmart wishlists, and monetary donations can be made at uwlakes.org/donate.

Following the drive, products will be sorted by volunteers, while maintaining COVID-19 precautions, and distributed to various agencies in the community including schools, shelters, food shelves, nursing homes, and more.

Ways you can help
Start a Collection Box at your church, organization, civic group, or business. Collect much-needed care items throughout the month of June, and call United Way at 218-999-7570 when donations are ready to be picked up. Find a toolkit at https://uwlakes.org/blog/health-and-hygiene-drive/.

Make a donation online by sponsoring a virtual package, or shopping from one of United Way’s wishlists at Target, Walmart, or Amazon.

Pack a personal care pack at home! Purchase items and pack them in a cinch sack, laundry basket, tote bag, or a repurposed T-shirt. Instructions can be found at https://uwlakes.org/blog/health-and-hygiene-drive/.

Items Needed:

• shampoo

• conditioner

• toothpaste

• toothbrushes

• deodorant

• razors & shaving cream

• soap

• lip balm

• sun protection

• laundry detergent

• cleaning supplies

• first aid supplies

• diapers & baby wipes

• feminine hygiene products

• paper products

• wash cloths, hand & bath towels

• prepaid gas card

*Full-size new unopened items only accepted.

About United Way of 1000 Lakes

United Way of 1000 Lakes is a leader in mobilizing individuals, companies, and government and local organizations, igniting community collaboration for change in support of the building blocks for a good quality life – success in school; financial stability; access to care; and healthy lifestyles. United Way invites everyone to join the movement. Visit uwlakes.org to learn more.