Welcome New Organizations - March 2022

We are excited to welcome a group of new organizations to the Donate Good Stuff family - Bridges to Independence, Homeward Bound, Zoom House, and The Shop. Here is more about who and where they are, and what they need.

Always remember, if you are donating an item, donate items in a condition that you would give to a friend or family member that you care about and love.

Who they are
Bridges to Independence in Arlington, Virginia, leads individuals and families out of homelessness and into stable, independent futures. They were founded in 1985 and provides youth development, emergency shelter, housing assistance, workforce development, and financial empowerment.
What they do
Their short-term goal is to help individual and families right now – whether they are unable to pay a utility bill or are experiencing emergency homelessness. Long-term, Bridges aims to empower today’s struggling youth or adults to be tomorrow’s successful community members. 
They serve about 100 families annually across Arlington County, including about 300 individuals, two-thirds of whom are under the age of 18. The expansion to Green Valley will add an additional and approximate 300 families and community members. 
What they need
Right now they are looking for donations of water as well as masks, gloves and disinfectant. Search DonateGoodStuff.org for all of their current needs and check them out here: https://bridges2.org/ways-to-give/donate-items/

Who they are
Homeward Bound was established in 1973 by parents of children with a variety of physical and mental challenges. They assist individuals with disabilities in finding their voice and realizing their full potential following a person-centered, active support approach.
What they do
They support children, adolescents, and adults with disabilities, providing 24-hour specialized nursing care, group living environments, in-home services, and individualized housing options for persons of all ages and ethnic, racial, and religious backgrounds. 
What they need
Right now they are in need of kitchen Items to help them open a new home. Search DonateGoodStuff.org for all of their current needs and check them out here: https://www.hbimn.org
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 Who they are
In 1999, an apartment building on the corner of 33rd and Blaisdell set the wrong tone for the Lyndale neighborhood of Minneapolis. The place was a mess, people felt unsafe, and the cops were called on a regular basis.
Then the people of Zion Lutheran Church (right next door) had an idea. Together with other community and congregational partners, they purchased and renovated the building. Today it's a separately incorporated non-profit that has 22 apartments. ZOOM (Zion Originated Outreach Ministry) House is proof that big things happen when congregations and communities work together.
What they do
ZOOM House serves families in transition by providing safe, affordable housing while offering services and opportunities that support residents as whole people.
What they need
Right now, their needs are food, household items and clothing including coats for for women, infants, and children. Go to DonateGoodStuff.org to see their current needs and check them out here: https://www.thezoomhouse.org/

Who they are
For the past 10 years The Brainerd Baxter Youth Center, known locally as TheShop has been a place for the youth of Brainerd Lakes Area of Minnesota to connect, be recognized, and grow toward independence. 
What they do
After school snacks and evening meals occur daily and offer a consistent source of nourishment for the hungry teens and young adults. Music, games of all varieties, artistry, laughter, loitering, and sometimes a nap on the couch are part of the experience of being at TheShop.
Educational programs, volunteer opportunities serving in the community, critical thinking development, and hands-on job skills are other facets of TheShop designed to help bridge opportunity and achievement gaps many of our young people must overcome.
What they need
Currently, there are lots of needs! They include everything from crafts and art supplies and games, to computers and bicycles to work on, as well as food for after school programs, decor for the space, and hygiene products and COVID tests. Go to DonateGoodStuff.org to see their current needs and check them out here: https://theshopbrainerd.org/

​Welcome to all!
​We hope you connect with organizations near you and give good stuff!