The City of Long Beach is rallying its community members to offer a helping hand to the local homeless population during these sweltering summer months. In an outreach move, the city has called for material donations, marking the 12th such initiative since its commencement last year. Donations can be made during a special drive-thru event taking place on July 27.
As reported by the City of Long Beach's official press release, Mayor Rex Richardson expressed the impact of this altruism, noting, "Since 2023, our incredible community has been coming together to collect items for people experiencing homelessness, contributing over 39,000 items, which we distribute to people experiencing homelessness and our partners, including nonprofits and faith-based organizations, who serve our neighbors experiencing homelessness.” The upcoming donation drive-thru is a continuation of these efforts, enabling locals to easily participate in the act of giving.
Set to take place at the Health Department’s Main Facilities Center on Grand Avenue, the drive-thru will operate from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., adhering to a wish list that includes hygiene kits, sweatpants, sun-protective gear, and essential items for pets. For those who are keen on contributing but unable to make it to the event, donation drop-off bins are conveniently placed around the city, such as at Long Beach Public Library locations, and organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of Long Beach.
The City's Multi-Service Center (MSC) will distribute the donations received, with a portion set aside for local partner organizations that offer support services to the homeless community. These organizations, which bolster the city's core mission, can request donations through an online application process. Organizations that serve people experiencing homelessness remain essential to the fabric of outreach in Long. Beach, extending the reach of the City's collected contributions.
Long Beach residents are encouraged to keep an eye on social media accounts like @lbhealthdept and @longbeachcity, and the hashtag #EveryoneHomeLB for updates on the donation drives and the broader effort to combat homelessness in the area. It's important to note that the City does not guarantee tax deductibility for donated items, and donors seeking receipts should coordinate with their tax professional.
