One Way to Support People Experiencing Poverty & Homelessness

1.png

First, a quick note:

Homelessness and poverty are big, complex issues. This is just one small action you can take as a form of community care. I encourage you to learn more about this issue (try www.homelesshub.ca) and vote for representatives who will support our neighbours experiencing homelessness when election time comes.

What is a Personal Care Kit?

It's a small Ziploc or reusable bag filled with a few personal care items along with some money. You can keep these kits on hand to give away when you come across someone asking for support. The items recommended here are based on feedback from the people experiencing homelessness that I have worked with in Toronto.

Suggested Personal Care Kit Items:

I put together 8 kits for $50, which each included:

  • $5 bill

  • Granola bar

  • Mini chocolate bar

  • Lip balm

Other items you can include:

  • Sharpie (for sign making)

  • A few band-aids

  • Small hand or body lotion 

  • Small hand sanitizer

Items NOT to include:

  • Used, old, open, damaged or dirty items

  • Large items that can't be easily kept in a backpack

  • Religious or self help materials

A few tips for handing out Personal Care Kits to people living In encampments:

  • Be respectful and ask them if they would like a kit - if they say no, respect that and leave

  • DO NOT take photos or ask to take photos

  • Don't expect a big TV style thank you moment 

  • I don’t have lived experience of living in encampments, so please leave any other tips in the comments!


You may be wondering why this is so important right now? 

As the pandemic has continued, less and less people have been out and able to give money to people asking for support. At the same time, more and more people have slipped into poverty due to the pandemic.

In addition, the opioid crisis has continued to worsen. In Nov. 2020, there were 305 substance related deaths in Ontario (for reference, there were 520 COVID related deaths). This is the number one cause of death for people experiencing homelessness and has caused incredible pain and grief for this community.

I hope you consider making some Personal Care Kits and consider getting involved in the advocacy efforts to end homelessness!

Carly Friesen