HATS launches 2024 “Care Bag” collection initiative

The Hamilton Alliance for Tiny Shelters (HATS) is relaunching its "Care Bag" collection initiative as we draw closer to the snowy season. HATS has a goal to fill 500 drawstring bags with essential items for those who are unhoused.

HATS is collecting new, gender-neutral items for its gift bags, including:

• Gloves, mitts

• Hand warmers, foot warmers

• Socks

• Underwear (men's boxer briefs and women's briefs)

• Winter hats

• Granola bars

• Mini flashlights

• $10 Tim Hortons gift cards

• Deodorant, toothbrushes, mini toothpaste, hotel-sized soaps

• Band-aids, travel wipe packages

• Chapstick

• Nail clippers, combs, hairbrushes

• Reusable water bottles, thermoses

• Mini chocolate bars, granola bars

• New or gently used blankets (washed and in good condition)

Greensville Public School has already generously contributed 791 pairs of socks to the HATS initiative through their "Socktober" initiative. This kind of community support is inspiring, and will encourage other teams, schools, and workplaces to consider organizing similar initiatives. Together, our community has the ability to profoundly impact the lives of those in need

For questions, to arrange pick-up, or to explore how you can contribute to this cause, please contact Sue at sue.vanegdom@gmail.com.