Uplift Kalamazoo Accepting Donations in MLK Park Saturdays

Even when times get a little tough, I always ask myself if I have something to spare. Whether its an extra can of beans in my cabinet that has been allowed to collect dust or a jar of coins on my dresser, those small things are reminders that I'm doing alright. But there are so many in our community that are struggling, and Uplift Kalamazoo is there to help fill in the gaps.

Uplift Kalamazoo is collecting donations for our local homeless population in Dr. Martin Luther King Park Memorial Park on Rose Street every Saturday from 3:00 to 4:00pm. They are accepting everything, from clothing to food, to warm weather accessories. You name it, they need it. In a season where we're caught up with crossing names off our lists, why not take some time to remember the needs of those nameless to you. Maybe get the family together and gather essential items.

Some donation ideas:

• Granola bars
• Bottled water
• Shelf stable fruits (like apples)
• Hats, scarves, gloves
• Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss
• Soap
• Deodorant
• Feminine hygiene products
• Disposable masks
• Hand sanitizer
• Alcohol wipes

Don't forget that there are quite a few homeless families in our community whose children could use these items, as well, so if you're out and about, and perhaps making hygiene kits, pandemic kits, or shopping for warm weather gear, Uplift Kalamazoo will accept it all.

According to their website, Uplift Kalamazoo's mission statement is quote: “Through a grassroots base, we bring resources and aid to the local Black community, while also enacting solutions to deal with the effects of systemic racism in Kalamazoo.”