Jessica Dean Hosting "Help for the Homeless" Drive Next Week
By: KARK 4 News
Updated: February 24, 2013
"I was so blown away by the response from our viewers," said Dean. "The message was the same--how can we help? I knew we couldn't solve the entire problem in just a week, but we could certainly make it better."
The "Help for the Homeless" drive will take place Tuesday and Wednesday outside the KARK studios just a block away from the steps of the State Capitol. Jessica and volunteers will be on-hand each day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. to accept your donations. Items will be given to The Van. The nonprofit, headed by Aaron Reddin, reaches out to homeless people living on the streets across central Arkansas.
The group is asking for the following items:
- Socks
- Underwear
- Jeans
- Other clothing items
- Tents
- Blankets
- Toilet paper
- Hygiene products: deodorant, toothpaste, tooth brushes
- Bug spray
In the case of clothing, tents, and blankets, items may be gently used. Jessica is challenging everyone to dig deep into their closet and see if there are items someone else might need more than you.
"Just take a look around your house. Did your child outgrow their coat? Did you just get a new pair of boots and now have an old pair you might throw away? We want those things," added Dean.
"I'm extremely impressed with Jessica's initiative regarding this important issue in our community," said KARK News Director Austin Kellerman. "Jessica didn't just highlight the problem -- she's working to help make a difference. We couldn't be more supportive of this effort."
A large truck will be parked outside the studios for drivers to come by and drop off their donations. If you're unable to gather the items and supplies listed above, you're welcome to stop by and make a monetary donation.
