While many turn to the Hernando County Library System for all the latest reads, they may not know that the library has a collection of another kind; One set to benefit the homeless people of this community. Hernando County Public Library System’s Giving Tree Toiletry Drive will be active at all four Hernando County public libraries from now through December 17th. The four locations are: Main/Brooksville Library, East Hernando Library, West Hernando Library, Spring Hill Library.
“The Hernando County Public Library System has been doing special ‘Giving Trees’ for the past few years now. We have collected for places such as the Dawn Center and The Humane Society. This year we decided to collaborate with The United Way and help gather toiletry items for the various shelters within our county. The United Way is such an important part of our community and this is a great way for our Library System to get involved with helping where it’s most needed,” said Colleen Ludington, Operations Coordinator of the Hernando County Public Library System, who collaborated with United Way to bring this to the library.
Items needed for homeless outreach include, but are not limited to: baby wipes, soap, bug spray, comb, deodorant, socks, sunscreen, toothbrushes and toothbrush holders, toothpaste, travel size shampoo and conditioner, baby wipes with wet wipes, bars of soap, black trash bags, plastic raincoats, blankets, sunblock, and toilet paper.
Angie B. Walasek, Executive Director/CEO United Way of Hernando County, explained, “With United Way being aware of our increasing homeless population and unmet needs in Hernando this season, this was an opportune chance to collect simple items and get gifts that are truly ‘back to the basics’ for so many.”
She specified, “Items such as clean socks, sunscreen, shampoo, and bug spray are appropriate for pre-packed toiletry kits used for Hernando Health and Human Services outreach efforts.”
Walasek continued, “United Way, being the organization that we are, identifies these needs and mobilizes resources to fill them. This is through direct distribution as well stocking up our fellow Partner Programs who serve our homeless populations across the county, shelters, and even select food pantries. Meeting basic needs is the small first step when it comes to collectively assessing the bigger picture.”
To spread your own positive community news, send your good news to community reporter Megan Hussey at the Hernando Sun, [email protected]. Show Us Your Sunshine!
