After encountering homeless people in Detroit, nutrition and food science major Alyssa Washeleski, 19, decided to take action.
“I didn’t have anything to give them. I wanted to do something to help, but wasn’t sure how,” said Washeleski.
After some research, Washeleski came across the idea for blessing bags. Blessing bags are filled with various essentials such as food and hygiene items that a person carries in their car or backpack to give to someone who is homeless or in need.
Washeleski, along with her mom and some friends, collected donations and put together nearly 30 blessing bags. Each bag contains two pairs of socks, a garbage bag and a mini water bottle. They also include hygiene items such as a travel-size shampoo, soap, conditioner, lotion, deodorant, lip balm, tissues, bandages, toothbrush, toothpaste, a comb, a packet of baby wipes and a nail file. Washeleski also included nonperishable food items.
Washeleski encourages others to make their own to keep on hand.
“The bags only cost around $10 to make. It’s a great way to give back and directly impact Detroit.”
By Carly Adams, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences communications associate
