As the temperatures plummet, consider donating to Thrive D.C., a local nonprofit organization that distributes directly to the homeless and low-income families in the District.
Established in 1979 to help homeless women, Thrive D.C. has grown into a well-known local aid organization for D.C. residents. Every year, they host a coat drive to help the needy in the city during the cold winter months.
What do they need?
The demand is high for new or gently worn coats, winter hats, scarves, gloves, and mittens this year. Sleeping bags would also be greatly appreciated. If you are able to donate new items, Thrive DC is asking for both men's and women's new, packaged underwear, thermal underwear, and socks. Due to space constraints, they are unable to accept donations of light outerwear or other clothing.
When is the coat drive happening this year?
Three distribution dates mean three different collection periods. Due to storage limitations, only make drop-offs on these specific dates:
- Distribution Date #1: Friday, December 7, 2018 (drop off items December 3-6, 2018)
- Distribution Date #2: Friday, January 11, 2019 (drop off items January 7-10, 2019)
- Distribution Date #3: Friday, February 8, 2019 (drop off items February 4-7, 2019)
Where can I drop off my donations?
Everything can be dropped off at the Thrive D.C. headquarters at 1525 Newton Street NW G1 in Washington, D.C.
How else can I help?
If you don't have anything to donate, you can also go online and purchase items from the Amazon wish list. Be sure to include your name and address so they can send you a thank you note! All Amazon purchases are delivered directly to the organization for the planned distribution dates.
You can also host your own mini-drive to bring an even bigger haul on behalf of your friends, family, or local organization. The event website has more information about how to run a drive and an in-kind coordinator will work with you to make your project a success.
For more information about the coat drive, visit the event website.
**All photos in this article are courtesy of Thrive DC.
Have you participated in a Thrive D.C. event? Tell us about it in the comments below.