2024 Pac NW Care Package Group

VOLUNTEER PAGE

Thank you for volunteering with The Pac NW Care Package Group and Northwest Hospitality to package and distribute care packages for our houseless neighbors. Your kindness and dedication play a crucial role in delivering essential items and comfort to those who need them most. Together, we’re creating a positive impact and supporting our community with care and compassion. This year we were able to raise just under $11,000!

This effort is about more than just distributing supplies; it’s about showing kindness, compassion, and recognizing the dignity of every individual in our community. Whether you’re assembling kits, sharing them with others, or simply offering a smile and a warm word, your contributions create a ripple effect of hope and humanity.

Together, we’re not just meeting immediate needs—we’re also sending a powerful message that no one is forgotten and that we care. Thank you for being part of this important work and for helping to make a positive impact on the lives of our houseless neighbors.

Please make an effort to stay within the neighborhood you’ve been assigned so that our efforts can be evenly distributed.

Here are some guidelines to keep in mind while distributing:

General Safety

  • Always go out with a partner or group. People living on the streets can sometimes be in survival mode, possibly influenced by substances, so not every interaction may be positive.

  • Leave any situation that feels unsafe immediately—no item in the kits is worth risking your safety.

  • Do not enter unstable buildings or hazardous terrain.

  • Always deliver only during daytime hours.

Engaging with People

  • Avoid approaching a group of homeless individuals if you do not have enough supplies for everyone, as this could lead to conflict.

  • If unsure about specific resources, refer individuals to 211 for assistance. You can also let them know we provided resource lists inside the packages.

  • Feel free to ask people where you might find others in need of help—this can guide you to those who could benefit from the kits.

Handling Items

  • Do not crush cans or bottles, as they may contain sharps like needles or broken glass.

  • Only carry trash bags you have personally filled to avoid hidden sharp or dangerous items.

  • Do not bag or handle sharp or dangerous items directly.

Personal Well-being

  • Take regular breaks, eat, and stay hydrated.

  • Wear a safety vest or high-visibility clothing.

  • Stay out of the streets and work facing oncoming traffic for added safety.

  • Never leave your vehicle running and un-occupied, even to briefly get out to do deliveries.

Privacy and Respect

  • If taking photos, respect the privacy of those experiencing homelessness. Focus on documenting the event while safeguarding their dignity. Share respectful images with NWH through the event page.

Assisting Women Involved in Prostitution

  • When reaching out to women in prostitution, prioritize their safety. Due to the influence of pimps and associated risks, only women should initiate contact. This minimizes potential danger and ensures support is provided responsibly.

If Supplies Remain

  • If you cannot distribute all the kits, save them in your car for future opportunities. The winter is just beginning, and there will be many chances to help.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe, respectful, and effective distribution effort.