Youth City Council sets unhoused drive for July 27; items will go to New Beginnings and Interfaith Housing via Lighthouse

The Hutchinson City Youth City Council announced an unhoused drive scheduled for July 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Council members said donated items will be collected for New Beginnings and Interfaith Housing, distributed through Lighthouse’s young-adult programs.

Why the drive matters: Council members and volunteers said hygiene items, summer clothing and drinkable fluids are in high demand during warm months. Organizers described the drive as a way to reduce beneficiaries’ day-to-day expenses so people experiencing homelessness can focus on housing and recovery.

Details and logistics: Council members listed suggested donations including bottled water, Gatorade, prepackaged snacks, sunscreen, short-sleeve shirts, shorts, diapers and wipes, flashlights and batteries. One council member said donors who bring five or more items can enter a raffle. Organizers also asked donors to bring items that are seasonally appropriate for summer.

Recipients and past impacts: Members said donations collected previously were delivered to New Beginnings and Interfaith Housing and that both organizations expressed strong appreciation for the size and usefulness of the donations. A council member said last year’s donations — toiletries, blankets and hygiene items — were “really, really needed” by recipients.

Volunteer and sponsor outreach: Council members reported they are reaching out to local businesses to sponsor the drive; one mentioned contacting a business named Holly Sweet Treat. A speaker said she had contacted several potential sponsors but had not yet received confirmations.

What’s next: The council did not record additional operational details, such as drop-off location or volunteer shifts, during the meeting. Organizers said they will provide updates on sponsor confirmations and collection points via the youth council’s social media.