A simple bottle of shampoo can make a world of difference. Genesis House, a local shelter supporting women and families in crisis, is running low on bathroom essentials and is inviting the community to take part in a new kind of donation initiative: a “drive-by donation drive.” A Busy Year, a Growing Need “It’s been a very busy summer, but truly we’ve had a very busy last few years at Genesis House,” says Community Resource Coordinator Sophie Gerbrandt. “Like any household, we go through pantry staples and bathroom supplies. By this time of year, the donations we usually receive at Christmas are starting to run low.” The biggest need right now is bathroom items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, toothpaste, and other basics many of us take for granted. “We are running low on pretty much all bathroom supplies,” Gerbrandt explains. “For some reason, conditioner is lower than shampoo, maybe because of the kids. But really, any bathroom item is helpful.” Why bathroom essentials matter so much Most families arriving at Genesis House come with little to nothing. “Most women or families that come to our shelter come with the clothes on their back and maybe a few other personal belongings,” Gerbrandt shares. “Within the first couple of hours that they’re in our shelter, we hope that they get a nice home-cooked meal, a comfy set of clothes to put on, and a warm shower. Making sure we have those supplies available may seem insignificant, but it’s actually a really big deal.” For families in crisis, having shampoo and soap available is about more than hygiene, it is about dignity. “It’s one less thing to have to think about,” says Gerbrandt. “They’re already occupied with where they’re going to sleep, how they’re going to talk to their kids, or doing self-work within themselves. If this simple thing is taken care of for them, it’s huge.” She adds that full-size bottles in particular mean something important. “Families who’ve been unhoused are used to only having travel-sized items. A full-size bottle says, I can settle in here for a bit. I can get comfortable. I don’t have to move again right away.” Related stories: Falk Fehr Foundation presents $60,000 to local charities Land blessing marks next step of Genesis House’s pivotal transitional housing project A new way to donate: The drive-by Instead of asking people to drop items off at a location, Genesis House is flipping the model. “We’re calling it a drive-by donation drive,” Gerbrandt says with a laugh. “There are no guns involved, just my friendly face coming to your door.” Here’s how it works: Gather new, unopened bathroom items. Leave them on your doorstep. Text Sophie your address at 204-362-0082. She will stop by Thursday to pick them up. “We know people are busy,” she explains. “It can be hard to make time to drive donations somewhere, especially since we’re an undisclosed location. This way, if you’ve got an extra bottle of shampoo in your closet, just put it out. I’ll come pick it up. We want to make giving as simple as possible.” More than just basics While Genesis House is prioritizing bathroom supplies for this drive, Gerbrandt says there is also room for a little generosity beyond the essentials. “If you have a hair product you really like, or a leave-in conditioner you wouldn’t normally buy for yourself, those extra things are wonderful. They aren’t always seen as necessities, but they really do help someone feel cared for.” How you can help To take part, text your address to Sophie at 204-362-0082 or connect through Genesis House on Facebook or Instagram. Donations are always needed, and this initiative makes it easier than ever for the community to step up and provide comfort for families who need it most.