A local teen updates us on her November coat drive, and for January, requests soap and toilet paper donations

by Shivani Nelson

I am 16 years old, and I live in Forest Hills. Prior to the COVID pandemic, I volunteered in the free preschool program at Martha’s Table and was looking forward to returning there last summer.

With those plans derailed, I have been looking for other ways to help families hit hardest by the pandemic. A couple of months ago, I became an ally for Goods for Good – a local nonprofit that supports families in need by supplying them with items such as winter coats, nutritious foods, earbuds for distance learning, and so much more.

In November, I called on our community to donate gently used winter coats, scarves, gloves, hats, and the response was overwhelming. Our neighborhood contributed more than 80 of the over 550 coats collected by Goods for Good. Partners such as Friendship Place, House of Ruth, and Calvary Women’s Services benefited from your generosity and kindness.

This month, Goods for Good is collecting COVID-related hygiene essentials for families in need. Please consider helping by donating new unopened packages of the following items: Soft Soap brand hand soap, toilet paper, disposable face masks, and paper towel rolls.

The hygiene drive runs until January 31st. Please text or call me at 202-744-7752 to arrange a donation pick up, or you may drop items at my house: 2831 Chesterfield Place.

To learn more about Goods for Good and its mission, please visit goodsforgooddc.org.

These are uncertain and unsettling times. Please consider helping folks who need a hand. Your generosity will mean so much to someone in need. Thank you for doing good!