Contributing gifts is a direct way to serve the homeless in your area. Our shelters and Bargain Centers welcome non-monetary contributions such as those listed below.
2009 HOLIDAY NEEDS
Ft. Walton Beach, FL Mission
Mobile, AL Mission
Pensacola, FL Mission
The Mission is looking for your help! The holiday season is nearing and along with this comes colder weather and an increase in needs at the Waterfront Rescue Mission. This year the Mission is expecting to serve up to 6,800 traditional holiday meals on Thanksgiving Day and on Christmas Day. The Mission not only serves these meals, but also organizes a giveaway. Those in need who attend these meals can come through and pick up free items such as blankets, sleeping bags, warm clothing, hygiene kits, etc.
The donated items are not only for those who come through on Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Any items that do not get passed out on these days are still distributed to those who stay at the Mission throughout the year.
Help the Waterfront Rescue Mission stock up on needed items today. Click here view a full list of holiday needs and our drop off locations.
GENERAL NEEDS
Food
Food continues to be the most consistent need we have at the Mission. Food Drives are a great way to maximize your efforts in feeding the hungry. Items that are in continuous demand include:
• Milk, Cheese, Eggs
• Deli Meat, Pork, Chicken, Beef
• Canned Goods
• Grits, Oatmeal
• Sugar
Clothing
The Waterfront Rescue Missions give out new and gently used clothing every day to men and women who are on the streets and come to spend the night in a safe, warm place. Consistent needs include new socks, underwear and t-shirts. There is also always a need for durable clothing such as denim jeans and shoes. The Waterfront Rescue Mission Bargain Centers also accept used but usable clothing.
Hygiene/Medical Supplies
We serve over 200 people a day and are in constant need of hygiene kits to hand out to the men and women who enter our doors. The Mission also encourages Toiletry Tote Drives. Hygiene kits consist of:
• Soap
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Toothpaste/Toothbrush
• Razor
• Shaving Cream
• Lotion
Optional items are:
• Band-Aids
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Lip Balm
Along with hygiene kits we also give out free medicine to those who need it. Medications needed on a consistent basis include:
• Cough or Cold Medicine
• Ibuprofen
• Lice Shampoo
• Allergy Medication
• Cough Drops
Other supplies for the Mission
• Linens - Twin Size Sheets, Pillow Cases
• Pillows
• Blankets
• Towels, Washcloths
• Dishtowels, Sponges
Gift Cards
Gift card donations are an excellent way to provide for the needs of the homeless who are supported through the Waterfront Rescue Mission. The following types of establishments and items help meet the Mission's specific needs:
• Grocery Stores
• Department Stores (Walmart, Target, etc.)
• Fast Food Restaurants (McDonald's, etc.)
• Gas Stations
• Phone Cards
Household Items
The Waterfront Rescue Mission's Bargain Centers accept a variety of household items in good condition. The Bargain Centers sell these donated items at an affordable price to the public. All of the proceeds from the stores go to help fund the Mission's rescue services and recovery programs. Examples of acceptable items include:
• Furniture
• Appliances
• Knick Knacks
• Tools
• Musical Instruments