URC Refugee Donation Needs and Wish List
November, 2024
As refugee families arrive in Michiana, there are items that are required for their resettlement period (generally first 90 days). This list includes the requirements, and some suggestions. The info below is intended for groups and individuals wishing to help with donations of items needed.
PLEASE NOTE: Storage is limited at the URC, so we ask that anyone with items from this list be sure to contact the office before planning to bring items by!
HOUSEHOLD/FOOD ITEMS
For every refugee household the URC helps, there are many items that are required and some that are optional. While families have limited funds available to purchase items, community volunteers and sponsors are often able to gather needed items, saving the family’s money and putting a person touch on the household.
Here is a list of items that are required; THIS IS A BASIC LIST, and many volunteer groups provide items that make ‘houses into homes’ and welcoming kitchens. Gift cards may be very helpful for items that groups want URC to purchase for families. Note that there are items at the end of this page that are not required but very helpful (televisions, for example).
FURNITURE
Mattress (URC requires new)
Bed Frame
Couch or equivalent seating
Kitchen Table and chairs for at least the number in the family
Set of drawers, shelves or unit appropriate for storage of clothing
Lamp, end tables or lamp stands
Gift cards for Menards or Walmart
KITCHEN ITEMS
Tableware, dishes, pots and pans, serving/mixing bowls, utensils (ex. spatula, wooden spoon, cutting knife, serving utensils, can opener)
TOILETRIES AND SELF-CARE
Toilet Paper
Shampoo, bar/hand soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste
Personal hygiene items such as deodorant, feminine hygiene products and razors, shaving creams, etc.
HOUSEHOLD CLEANING SUPPLIES
Dish Soap (both liquid and dishwasher)
Bathroom/Kitchen Cleaner
Laundry Detergent
Sponges, Cleaning Rags and/or Paper Towels, Waste Baskets for kitchen bathroom size
Trash Bags
Mop and broom
SOFT GOODS
Sheets, pillows, pillowcases and blankets
Bath towels and wash cloths
SMALL CHILD ITEMS
When babies or small children are expected, URC is required to provide: baby food, clothing, car seat and/or booster seats, diapers, and crib (with sheets, blankets)
MISCELLANEOUS
Cell Phone (unlocked and in good shaper)
Alarm clock
Paper, Pens and/or Pencils, envelopes, stamps
GROCERIES AND ARRIVAL FOOD
Arriving families are eligible for SNAP and other public benefits, but it takes several weeks to gain these benefits. In the interim, the following are needed:
Arrival: Culturally appropriate, ready-to-eat food, plus up to 72 hours' additional food and staples.
Food Stocks: The URC has some base lists of shopping for different countries of origin, advice on when dietary restrictions exist, and other ideas.
Gift Cards: URC can greatly help with donated gift cards. Of particular help are Walmart, Aldi, and Kroger cards.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Winter gloves and hats; warm coats for all sizes
IDEAL ITEMS, NOT REQUIRED!
Televisions (HD appreciated, smart TVs)
Computers (in decent condition, ‘wiped’ of personal information
Rugs
Rice cookers, pressure cookers, bread makers, and other kinds of simple appliances
Other furniture, including desks, shelves, and comfortable chairs
ITEMS (IN GENERAL) THAT URC CANNOT ACCEPT:
Clothing: we are generally not aware of sizes or needs before arrival, nor preferences of the arriving clients. Once clients have arrived, it may be easier for the groups working with the families to secure direct donations.
Gift cards and tickets can be addressed or dropped off in the drop box to:
URC of St. Joseph County
501 N Main Street
South Bend, IN 46601
Call: 574-282-2397 x3 (message) or email urc@urcsjc.org
For any questions or concerns, please reach out to communityengagement@urcsjc.org!