A month ago, hundreds came out to support the 14^th annual MLK toiletry drive that supplies basic hygiene items to the most vulnerable in the CSRA. United Way of the CSRA and AmeriCorps VISTA members want to thank the community for their outpouring support.  

Almost 18,000 toiletry items were collected with a total value of over $23,000. Thirty three organizations including schools and non-profits that serve the homeless, seniors, and children received toiletry kits. 

“We were happily surprised! After postponing the drive because of inclement weather, we were not sure if it would be as successful as past years, but our community really came out and made a difference. This year's goal was to provide emergency hygiene kits to at least 2,000 local households that often go without these basic hygiene necessities most of us take for granted and thanks to the CSRA community of supporters, we did it!”, said Cheryl Odom, United Way of the CSRA Community Impact Program Specialist.

For the past 14 years, the CSRA AmeriCorps VISTAs, operating under the umbrella of United Way of the CSRA have been leading this effort. This year, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused many to lose their jobs or experience a reduction in income, non-profit partners and families had a greater need for these basic hygiene supplies. 

Although past MLK Day events recruited volunteers from the community, this year it was a socially distanced service project to celebrate and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The MLK Day of Service project shines a spotlight on service as a powerful force to bridge economic and social divides – today and throughout the year.

Find out more about the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service here https://www.nationalservice.gov/mlkday