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Groups Helping Homeless

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By MEGAN HUSSEY

Tribune correspondent

Published: November 20, 2008

Two nonprofit groups active in Pasco County are planning efforts to help the homeless, and organizers are asking for support to make the events possible.

At 10 a.m. Saturday, Operation Unwrap a Smile will host a Feed the Homeless effort in downtown Tampa. Representatives will distribute gift bags filled with "ready to eat items" and personal hygiene products for the homeless.

"We are planning to pass out about 40 bags filled with toiletries and pop-topped canned goods," said Stephanie Roshell, the Land O' Lakes resident who co-founded Operation Unwrap a Smile with husband Herbert Roshell. "We do need donations of the items we usually put in our bags. We use large gift bags, and we also have some backpacks that were donated."

Donations needed include lotion, socks, body wash, wash cloths, pop-top canned goods, instant hand sanitizer, small blankets, coffee mugs, hot chocolate, deodorant and combs. These donations also will be needed for additional efforts involving homeless and needy people.

"We will go in search of those in the area that need a smile," Roshell said.

To donate to Operation Unwrap a Smile's Feed the Homeless effort, call (813) 210-3838.

In a similar effort, the Homeless Memorial Day will not only honor those less fortunate, but also provide for their basic needs.

The event is Dec. 22 at the Gulfcoast Community Care shelter in Hudson, where the homeless are invited to pick up basic necessities from 4 to 4:30 p.m.

"These are people dwelling in the woods, unsheltered families," said Angela Littlefield, executive director of Gulfcoast Community Care and a board member of the Coalition for the Homeless of Pasco County, which is sponsoring the event.

Littlefield is posting notices about the Memorial Day at day labor sites, where many unsheltered people work.

She is asking for community donations to help make the Homeless Memorial Day a success.

Donations of canned goods, can openers, blankets, jackets, tents and other necessary items can be dropped off at Gulfcoast Community Care shelter, 7801 Maryland Ave., Hudson.

"These are the basic things that unsheltered people need," Littlefield said.

For information, call Gulfcoast Community Care at (727) 861-4840.

HELP WANTED

Donations are being sought for efforts to assist the homeless.

• At 10 a.m. Saturday, Operation Unwrap a Smile will host a Feed the Homeless effort in downtown Tampa. To help, call (813) 210-3838.

• Homeless Memorial Day is 4 to 4:30 Dec. 22 at the Gulfcoast Community Care shelter in Hudson. To donate, call (727) 861-4840.

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