Now through December 15th, MCB is throwing a gift drive to collect blankets, hand warmers, and warm clothing for adults (particularly in large sizes) for Harvard Square Homeless Shelter (HSHS). Since 1983, the Harvard-student-run shelter has provided overnight housing to unhoused people during winter months and given food and clothing to many more.
Over the years, MCB has hosted many gift drives to benefit numerous local organizations. We have collected clothes, turkeys and other food, toiletries, toys and art supplies, books, monetary donations, and more for distribution to the less fortunate. Please join us in continuing this MCB holiday tradition.
Drop-off locations for donations include the main entrance of BioLabs, where a box is set up, and the MCB administration space on the first floor of 38 Oxford Street. New and lightly used items are accepted. Cold weather clothing, blankets, and hand warmers are among the most requested items, and larger sizes (XL+) are the most in demand. Recipients of donated clothes often use them for layering during the colder months.
HSHS is also seeking new volunteers for many tasks, such as cleaning and welcoming guests to the shelter. Anyone with questions about the MCB Gift Drive or anyone who is interested in volunteering with HSHS can reach out to Administrative Coordinator Audrie Cortes at acortes@fas.harvard.edu.
The collection boxes will be open now through December 18. Please join us in giving back to the local community and making the winter a bit safer and warmer for all.
