Story by Eddie Zhou
Staff Writer
Graphic by Grace Dennis
Contributor
Care First South Pasadena, Black Lives Matter South Pasadena, and the Anti-Racism Committee of South Pasadena are hosting a holiday donation drive for unhoused neighbors on Thursday, Dec. 24. The groups will distribute cold weather gear and hot food at the South Pasadena Public Library and the Arroyo Seco Park at 1:15 p.m. and 2:00 p.m., respectively.
The donation drive follows the organizations’ Thanksgiving Day dinner and cold weather gear distribution last month. This holiday season, the local advocacy groups aim to continue supporting unsheltered residents, who are facing dire conditions amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
“It is really important to remember our unhoused neighbors during one of the most difficult holiday seasons we’ve ever experienced,” resident and drive volunteer Phung Huynh said. “Many community organizations are unable to provide meals and donations as they did in the past because of the pandemic. I’m so proud and honored to be part of this effort sponsored by local social activist community groups.”
Those who wish to contribute can order items from the groups’ Amazon and Target wish lists or donate new winter gear, which can be dropped off at the library at 12:45 p.m. on Dec. 24. The groups are seeking cash donations to purchase meals with the help of Cookie Chaos and San Marino Cafe and Marketplace. The final day for monetary donations is Wednesday, Dec. 23, and can be made via Venmo to Anne Bagasao @Elizabeth-Bagasao.