Organize your own Holiday Donation Drive

For many Americans, the winter holidays inspire us to give gifts to those less fortunate in the community, from cookies and food to warm blankets and extra clothing. You can make an impact in the lives of newly arrived refugees this season by holding a donation drive of your own.

“Donation drives are a good opportunity for people to get involved by providing items that refugees need to begin rebuilding their lives, and they can be put on by anyone at any time. All it takes is passion and organization.” says IRC Atlanta’s Volunteer Coordinator, Amber Mull.

Mull says that the most successful drives are those for a specific item or group of items. Examples of these are kitchen supplies for each apartment, and school supplies and book bags. “With the cold weather right around the corner,” says Mull, “we’re looking for warm winter coats and new comforters.”

 It may seem strange to collect school supplies after the end of summer.  However, explains Kimberly Fulghum, IRC Atlanta’s Development Manager, “We are resettling refugees nearly 365 days a year. We outfit each family that comes in with the clothing and supplies that they need to start, whether they arrive in January or July. That way, we know each person has what he or she needs to be warm, comfortable, and ready for school or work. Because next week, new families are arriving.” 

If you’d like to do a donation drive during this holiday season, we encourage you to contact Amber Mull at Amber.Mull@theIRC.org or 678-636-8928 for tips and information about items in greatest need.  IRC Atlanta asks that donation drives be for new goods.