LACIE SILVA
Editor
Local volunteers Laurie Rutledge and Chris Martin are spearheading an initiative to provide essential supplies, haircuts, and bibles to the homeless community this October, urging the public to donate items like sleeping bags, hygiene products, and non-perishable food to help those in need.
They are currently collecting donations of essential items, including new or gently used sleeping bags, blankets, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, wipes, lip balm, socks, gloves, hats, backpacks, water, granola bars, crackers, peanut butter, feminine hygiene products, tissues, bandages, and Bibles.
The goal is to gather as many supplies as possible by October, when Rutledge and Martin plan to spend an entire day distributing these items, along with pizza, to those in need. Martin, who learned to cut hair while serving in the military, will also offer free haircuts to the homeless during this outreach. He emphasizes the importance of small comforts, such as a fresh haircut, which can boost self-confidence and provide a sense of dignity that is often out of reach for many people living on the streets.
Rutledge and Martin are driven by their desire to spread the love of God and remind others of the importance of compassion and kindness. They welcome any and all donations, whether in the form of goods or monetary contributions, and are willing to pick up items at the donor’s convenience. Martin underscores that many of the conveniences we take for granted—like a warm bed, clean clothes, or even a haircut—are luxuries for those without a home. By providing these necessities, they hope to bring a little comfort and a lot of love to their neighbors in need.
Both Rutledge and Martin stress the importance of community support and ask anyone who is able to contribute to this cause. They believe that hard times can fall on anyone, and through this initiative, they aim to make a difference in the lives of those who are often overlooked.
