Peace River Center is gathering donations for a Christmas in July celebration for some of its 21,500 clients, almost all of whom live at or below the poverty level.
The nonprofit behavioral health organization that serves Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties is looking for toiletries, bedding, and towels, as well as items that help their clients who struggle with mental health issues cope with everyday living.
“Oftentimes our clients are living on incredibly limited incomes, by the time they cover housing and medication costs, many are left with little to purchase essentials like toiletry items or items that boost their coping skills such as journals,” said Ileana Kniss, Director of Development and Community Relations at PRC.
Kniss said some of their clients have endured domestic violence and often they and their children served through PRC’s Victim Services program often have just one bag they quickly packed to escape their dangerous situations.
“When these families find safe, alternative housing we love providing a housewarming basket with essentials like towels, sheets, laundry detergent, and dish soap,” Kniss said. “These are the items so many of us take for granted, but that can strain a budget when people are getting back on their feet.”
Kniss added that they are also hoping for art supplies, including colored pencils, drawing paper, and notebook paper, as well as recreational supplies like baseball gloves and basketballs. The full wish list is at https://bit.ly/2021prcwishlist. Donations may be purchased using PRC’s Amazon Wish List (https://bit.ly/prc-wishlist) or dropped off at:
• PRC’s Community Relations Office, 1933 E. Edgewood Drive, Ste. 101, Lakeland 33803, Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; or
• The PRC Thrift Shoppe, 2934 S. Florida Avenue, Lakeland 33803, Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
While the organization aims to collect all donations by July 31, donations are always welcome and appreciated. For more information visit www.PeaceRiverCenter.org.