Columbia, S.C. Launches C.H.U.G.S. Winter Donation Drive to Support the Homeless This Holiday Season

Columbia, S.C. Prepares to Spread Holiday Cheer with Winter Donation Drive

As the holiday season approaches, the lovely city of Columbia is buzzing with a spirit of generosity and goodwill. This time of year is perfect for lending a helping hand to those who may be struggling, and this is especially true for our friends and neighbors experiencing homelessness. Getting involved couldn’t be easier thanks to some wonderful local initiatives that aim to keep our community warm this winter!

Join the C.H.U.G.S. Winter Donation Drive

Have you heard about the exciting C.H.U.G.S. Winter Donation Drive? This fantastic effort is a joint project from the City of Columbia’s Homeless Services and the Office of Violent Crime Prevention. The drive kicked off on November 11 and runs until November 31, giving you plenty of time to dig through your closets and see how you can help.

What does C.H.U.G.S. stand for, you might wonder? It stands for “Columbia Helps Us Give Support.” It’s a simple yet impactful initiative designed to collect essential items that provide warmth and comfort for those in need. With the chilly winter months fast approaching, your donations are more important than ever!

What to Donate

The city is asking for specific items to keep our community cozy, so here’s what you can contribute:

• Coats
• Hats
• Undergarments
• Gloves
• Socks

Not sure if your items will make the cut? Both new and gently used donations are welcome! It’s fantastic to think that something you no longer need could bring joy and warmth to someone else.

Drop-off Locations

Now that you’ve decided to help out, you might be wondering where to drop off your donations. Lucky for you, Columbia has several convenient drop-off locations including:

• City Hall – 1737 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
• Dee’s Barber Shop – 6030 St. Andrews Road, Suite K, Columbia, SC 29212
• Rapid Shelter Columbia – 191 Calhoun Street, Columbia, SC 29201
• Super 8 by Wyndham Columbia – 5719 Fairfield Road, Columbia, SC 29203

Never underestimate how a simple act of kindness can make a big difference! With each donation, you are not just giving someone a piece of clothing; you’re providing hope, comfort, and a reminder that someone cares.

Get Involved and Spread the Word

If you’re feeling particularly festive this year, consider enlisting your friends, family, and colleagues to join in the fun. Host a mini donation drive in your own neighborhood! Create a little competition to see who can gather the most warm items. Remember, it’s all about community, and when we come together, we can create incredible change.

As we all gear up for the upcoming holidays, let’s keep in mind the true spirit of the season. Through kindness, generosity, and compassion, we can show our fellow Columbians that they are not alone. So, let’s rally together and support the C.H.U.G.S. Winter Donation Drive—because every little bit counts!

Make this season about more than just giving and receiving; let’s make it about sharing and caring. After all, the more, the merrier! Happy holidays, Columbia!