Lafayette Shelter Issues Call for Blankets and Hygiene Items

Lafayette, LA (KPEL News) - Most of us in Louisiana approach the holidays with an enormous sense of gratitude for all we have: a home, a family, food, and all the things essential for a good life. We also think about those people who are less fortunate and may be struggling, and we ponder ways to help them.

Each year, FoodNet, a program administered by Catholic Charities of Acadiana, partners with KLFY for the annual Food for Families Food Drive. Thousands of pounds of food is collected at the Cajundome and at pantries across Acadiana.

But food insecurity or hunger isn't the only challenge facing our neighbors. Homelessness is a problem we don't like to talk about, much less think about. Based on information from several sources, roughly 400 people in Lafayette and the immediate surrounding area are homeless.

Catholic Charities of Acadiana provides emergency shelter to 155 men, women, children, families, and veterans on any given night, and they are always in need of items to provide for the needs of the people they serve.

The organization has created an Amazon shopping list that anyone wishing to help out can purchase from and have the items shipped directly to their offices for use and distribution.

They are in immediate need of the following items:

1- New underwear in all sizes for men and women.

2- Laundry detergent

3- All-purpose cleaner

4- New twin or full-size bed blankets

5- New sleeping bags

While the need for the five items above represent the most immediate need, the Amazon list includes other personal hygiene essentials like:

• Disposable razors
• Deodorant
• Body wash
• Shampoo
• Instant oatmeal
• Healthy snack packs
• Dish soap
• Elastic-waist shorts

St. Joseph's Diner is also in need of volunteers for meal prep and in the afternoons. Contact Catholic Charities of Acadiana if you can help.