As the chill of winter sets in, many of us naturally gravitate toward warmth and security. We might pull our favorite blanket a little tighter around our shoulders, savor the rich aroma of a hot meal, or take comfort in the knowledge that a heated home awaits us at the end of a long day. Unfortunately, these simple, everyday luxuries aren’t a given for everyone. Across our community, there are individuals who greet the colder months with a sense of trepidation, never quite certain where their next meal will come from, if they’ll have protection from the elements, or where they might find a safe place to rest. At NAMI Southwest Washington, we stand on the principle that dignity, safety, and compassion are rights that belong to all human beings—regardless of their housing status. We recognize that the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness are compounded by the arrival of winter, and we are committed to ensuring that no one is left completely exposed to its harsh realities.
It’s with this commitment in mind that, each January, we bring our community together for a special project: assembling and distributing Winter Supply Bags to individuals who do not have a permanent, stable place to call home. The contents of these bags are carefully selected with both practicality and comfort in mind. Thermal blankets offer protection against the penetrating cold, gloves shield hands from biting winds, and first aid supplies help guard against injury or illness that can so easily escalate without proper care. Nutritious snacks, often overlooked but greatly appreciated, provide a crucial source of sustenance and energy. Even the smallest items included—like toothbrushes for maintaining oral health and handwarmers for immediate relief—can have a lasting impact, not only by addressing immediate physical needs but also by showing those in challenging circumstances that there is a community that sees them, respects them, and genuinely cares about their well-being.
We’ve curated an Amazon Wish List that makes it easy for anyone to contribute. Instead of wondering which items are most needed, you can simply pick from our list of pre-selected supplies, ensuring that every purchase you make directly supports someone in need. Whether you can afford a single pair of gloves or a handful of thermal blankets, each item matters. Your gift will help us fill these Winter Supply Bags with both tangible essentials and an intangible but vital message of hope.
Why Your Help Matters
Homelessness is a community issue—and one that we can all help address. By participating in this simple act of kindness, you become part of a network of neighbors who refuse to let members of our community slip through the cracks. When you purchase an item from our Wish List, you stand alongside NAMI Southwest Washington volunteers and supporters who are determined to spread warmth, compassion, and understanding, even during the coldest months of the year.
Early in the new year, our incredible volunteers will gather to assemble these bags, ensuring they’re filled with care and delivered to those who need them most. It’s a process that reflects our belief in community engagement: many individuals, each doing a small part, can create a powerful force of good. Every item you donate will be carefully placed into a bag and handed to someone who will use and appreciate it far more than you may ever know.
We invite you to browse our Amazon Wish List and contribute what you can. Even one item makes a difference. By doing so, you’re not just providing physical warmth—you’re helping foster a more compassionate and connected community, one where every person has a bit more hope this winter.
Thank you for standing with us and for bringing comfort and dignity to those who need it most. Together, we can help our neighbors meet winter’s challenges with greater resilience, support, and care.
