SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A lot of us might think doing the laundry is a bit of a pain, but for those who are experiencing homelessness having clean clothes is not something they take for granted.
That’s why a local organization continues to help out by donating a lot of laundry soap to shelters.
At the St. Francis House, an organization that moves people from homelessness to hope, staff do a lot of laundry for their guests.
That’s why each year the Knights of Columbus donates enough laundry and dish soaps to last them the entire year.
“I guess when you look at helping the homeless out we were looking for an avenue to go and if we can provide them with clean clothes, get them on the right step it’s an awesome feat,” Knights of Columbus member Jim Coburn said.
For the next two weekends, the Knights of Columbus will be raising money through a silent auction with a long list of items.
“I look at fast food certificates, night outs, oil changes, services on your vehicles; I like to keep it in the realm of items you normally would spend money on anyhow,” Coburn said.
Coburn thinks they’ll raise close to $25,000 and use that money to buy the laundry and dish soap.
St. Francis House executive director Julie Becker says it’s greatly appreciated.
“For our families, nothing is more important to them than laundry soap; it’s like giving them gold, because laundry soap is not covered under food stamps, so that’s an out-of-pocket expense and laundry soap is expensive,” Becker said.
The soap also goes to the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House and the Union Gospel Mission; three organizations helping the homeless and families who are looking to get back on their feet.
“The demands are high and nothing gives someone more dignity than having clean clothes,” Becker said.
The silent auction is this weekend and the following weekend at Holy Spirit. If you’d like to donate make your checks payable to CCF #9541 and mail them to 523 N Duluth Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57104.
