Global Generosity Movement starts Nov. 28
SKAMANIA & KLICKITAT CO. — This year’s season of giving campaign, Two for GivingTuesday, will kick off at Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) beginning Tuesday, Nov. 28.
“We are inviting community members to stop by Stevenson, Bingen, and Goldendale Housing offices to say hello and pick up two free WAGAP shopping bags,” said Jennifer Pauletto, associate director. “The first bag is for them to keep, and we ask that the second bag be returned filled with items that support WAGAP programs for those in need.”
The bags will be available ongoing and include lists of the top items requested for the Food Bank Network, as well as things most in need for emergency housing and domestic violence assistance programs.
All donated items in both lists below must be new, unopened, and in original wrapping.
Food items in need:
• Canned meats
• Canned and dried fruits
• Canned vegetables
• Canned and dried beans
• Canned stew, chili, soups, broths
• Pasta, rice, cereal and cornmeal
• Cooking and olive oils
• Canned tomato products
• Spices and sauces
Non-food items in need:
• New and unopened toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, body wash, bar soap, deodorant, and make-up removal wipes
• Feminine hygiene products like tampons and pads
• Diapers (sizes 3/4/5 needed most)
• Socks and gloves
• Sets of full-size sheets
• Dish towels/cloths
• Bath towels/washcloths
• Laundry detergent/pods
• Dish soap
• Clorox wipes
WAGAP also hopes to raise $100,000 in donations to support children and families between Thanksgiving and the end of February. Pauletto said these donations offer the agency flexibility in responding to the needs of the community and that end-of-year giving is a vital part of its overall financial foundation.
“Supporting families is key to our communities’ success,” Pauletto said. “We are so grateful for every contribution made to put food on the table and a roof over the heads of children in need. And providing simple items on the most needed lists help people to maintain their dignity during difficult times.”
Pauletto said there are many programs and seasonal activities that community members, businesses, service organizations, local agencies, and local governments can easily participate in to make a difference in their neighbors’ lives.
“In addition to the Two for GivingTuesday free bag program, we also have the Tree of Joy gift-giving program, as well as Coats for Kids and the Winter Warmth Service Project, all going on now,” Pauletto said. “There are so many opportunities to help.”
Year-round activities are also a way to get involved beyond the season of giving, Pauletto said. She invites community members to learn more about WAGAP’s programs and volunteer opportunities in Skamania and Klickitat Counties through its website wagap.org and encourages everyone to participate in GivingTuesday and share their generosity throughout the year.
WAGAP bags can be picked up and returned at three WAGAP offices. In Bingen at 115 W. Steuben St., Stevenson at 683 Rock Creek Drive, and the Goldendale Housing Office at 150 W. Main St. For more information, call 509-493-2662 extension 200 during regular business hours.
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