HYANNIS- Members from the Duffy Health Center are kicking off their Christmas in July’ drive to collect items to help the homeless stay safe in the heat of the summer months.
“The idea is that we put together gifts of backpacks for our clients who may be living in the shelter, out on the streets, or in the woods, to help them stay safe and healthy over the summer. The backpacks usually include things like bug-spray, suntan lotion, water, t-shirts, things that people need to just stay safe in the elements,” said Elyse DeGroot, Director of Community Relations and Marketing for the Center.
Donations of items such as deodorant and toothbrushes, along with snacks such as granola bars are also especially useful during this drive. Monetary contributions will also be accepted.
Gathered items and/or checks made out to Duffy Health Center can be dropped off through this Friday (June 29th), at the lobby of the Center, located at 94 Main Street Hyannis, Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM.
“We are going to be packing the backpacks on July 3rd and handing them out at the beginning of summer, so that people can have full access to things that they need, as soon as the weather gets really hot around here,” said DeGroot.
Duffy is also currently looking for volunteers to help with the effort. You can call (508) 771-7517 ext. 169 for more information on how to sign-up.
The mission of the Duffy Health Center is to provide comprehensive, integrated health care and support services to persons who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness on Cape Cod.
By JOHN BONDAREK, CapeCod.Com News Center
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