It started with one question:
What does a person really need to feel at home?
For Royal Neighbors member Cynthia Hughes of Newaygo, Mich., the answer unfolded during a conversation with the homeless and unhoused director at TrueNorth Community Services, a Newaygo County organization that helps individuals and families transition out of homelessness. TrueNorth’s team described a gap that is easily overlooked: when someone finally secures housing, they often arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs. No towels, no dishes, and no sense of a home that is theirs.
Inspired to help, Cynthia applied for a Royal Neighbors Difference Maker Fund grant to support a project that would provide welcome baskets filled with household essentials for individuals and families moving into permanent housing. What began as one member’s idea quickly grew into a collaborative community effort. Family members, neighbors, church community members, Royal Neighbors friends, and members of Chapter 20320 donated items, volunteered their time, and helped bring the project to life.
With support from the Difference Maker Fund helping offset project costs, Cynthia and her volunteers dedicated approximately 45 hours to planning, collecting donated goods, purchasing needed supplies, and assembling and delivering five overflowing welcome baskets. More than just necessities, the baskets offered comfort, dignity, and a sense of a fresh start.
What’s inside each basket?
- 4 glasses, 4 plates, 4 bowls, and 4 cups
- 1 pan with lid
- 1 microwave-safe dish
- 2 dishcloths
- 2 kitchen towels
- Hand soap, dish soap, and laundry soap
- Paper towels
- 1 laundry basket
- 1 blanket
- 1 multi-surface cleaner
- 2 washcloths
- 2 bath towels
- Plunger
- Toilet paper
- Shower curtain and shower curtain rings
Every item was thoughtfully chosen. Balancing practical needs, like a plunger and paper towels, with touches of dignity, like a set of matching plates, sends a simple but meaningful message: Your home matters. You deserve to be here.
The moment of delivery turned out to be more moving than anyone anticipated. On the day the baskets arrived at TrueNorth’s offices, staff members were visibly excited. They shared that one basket would be delivered that very afternoon to an apartment where a domestic violence survivor and her children were moving in.
Five baskets, assembled by many hands, ready to reach people the moment they need them most. That is community at its best.
Ready to make a difference?
As a Royal Neighbors member, you can apply for a Difference Maker Fund grant once a year to help offset the costs of your volunteer project. If approved, you will receive a check for up to $200 to make a positive social impact in your community.
Learn more and apply at royalneighbors.org/dmf.