A big thanks tonight from organizers of the Hope Lutheran Human Care Ministry donation drive to create “welcome baskets” for refugee families. This morning was the first of two Saturday mornings that they are collecting requested items, and they were heartened by the response.

We published the wish list back on Wednesday:

New or Like-New Items Only

Kitchen Kit: Pots & pans, cutlery, plates, bowls, drinking glasses, cups, tea kettles
Household Kit: Warm blankets, dish towels, hot pads
Hygiene Kit: Feminine products, toothpaste, soap, razors

We asked today if, after the first of the two dropoff dates, there is anything in particular that is needed the most – Hope HCM’s Elissa Sommer, who shared the photos shown above, says, “New sheets and new blankets of any size.” Your next chance to drop off donations is next Saturday (March 4th), 9 am-noon, at the Hope Lutheran entrance (4456 42nd SW). The baskets are being put together in collaboration with the Lutheran Community Services Northwest refugee-settlement program.