The Hamilton County Democratic Party announced the launch of a summer project to aid the local homeless community.
“Hamilton County Democrats Care” will collect, sort and distribute toiletries and other needed items through two established organizations that have long worked with the homeless: Community Kitchen and Room in the Inn.
“HCDP is more than a political organization. It is a community service organization, as well, committed to addressing the needs of our citizens and constituents,” said HCDP Chair Rachel Campbell. “Every person deserves to live with dignity in an environment that promotes wellness.”
The project will officially kick off Thursday, July 14, at The Moxy Hotel, 1220 King St. in Chattanooga. Those who stop by The Moxy between 1-4 p.m. with donations will receive a Democrats Care coupon for a free beverage at the hotel’s Up/Down Coffee Bar. A donation box will remain at The Moxy for the duration of the project.
Items requested by Room in the Inn and by the Community Kitchen include:
• new underwear, socks and t-shirts;
• soap and body wash;
• toothbrushes and toothpaste;
• mouthwash (without alcohol);
• shampoo and conditioner;
• deodorant;
• razors;
• tissues;
• feminine hygiene products; and
• canned food goods.
In addition to The Moxy, donation boxes will be available beginning next week and into August at HCDP Headquarters, 1089 Bailey Ave. in Chattanooga (6-8 p.m. Tuesdays); Community Kitchen, 727 East 11th St. in Chattanooga; and Room in the Inn, 230 North Highland Park Ave. in Chattanooga.
“Our members got involved in politics in the first place to make a difference in Hamilton County and in the larger community,” said HCDP Vice-Chair Frank Maurizio. “This project is an opportunity to do just that, by doing good.”
Those who wish to make a financial donation to Hamilton County Democrats Care may do so at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/hamcodemscare.