A Guide to Making Homeless Blessing Bags

Published February 1, 2024

While blessing bags are always a good idea, we should consider what we put in them more.

According to a formerly homeless mom, most items in the blessing bags are not what the homeless want or need. Most importantly, some items can harm people experiencing homelessness and the community.

We know you just want to help, which will always be appreciated. But you’ll help them more by NOT putting these items inside the blessing bags.

The list below should be considered no more than thought-provoking suggestions. We recommend you assemble your blessing bags according to what you believe is best for the homeless in your community.

Items Not To Include in Homeless Blessing Bags

1. Soap With No Proper Packaging

Soaps are beneficial for homeless people. Of that, there’s no doubt.

But most of the time, people just throw in the soap (and other toiletries) together with the food. As a result, the smell of the soap rubs off on it. This is especially true if the soap comes in thin paper packaging.

If you want to give them soap (and other toiletries, for that matter), be sure to put it in a separate ziplock bag. So when they spill or get wet, it won’t affect the food.

2. Sticky or Hard Foods

When you search the web for what foods to include in blessing bags, granola bars often appear on the list. While they are ideal in some cases, remember that homeless people don’t have ready access to dental services.

As such, they might find it hard to chew sticky and crunchy foods like granola bars and candies. As much as possible, stick to soft foods like tinned soup, crackers, cup noodles, etc.

3. Sugary Foods

Since most homeless people have no access to dental care, sugary foods are also a no-no for them. Not to mention that it poses a health hazard for those with diabetes.

4. Perishable Goods

The idea of a blessing bag is that it will last the receiver for at least a few days. Since most homeless people live on the streets, they don’t have access to a refrigerator. So, if you pack foods for them, stick to non-perishable ones like chips, crackers, jams, etc.

5. Religious Literature

Bibles and bible verses may seem like a thoughtful addition to a homeless blessing bag. And people experiencing homelessness can undoubtedly use an uplifting word or two.

However, you need to remember that we all have different religious beliefs. You might have the best intentions, but it can come off as offensive for some.

If you want to leave them some words of encouragement, choose quotes and sayings with no religious implications. Or you can always talk to them and ask if they would like a bible. It’d be even better if you could spare a few minutes to read a bible verse to them.

6. Sharp or Bladed Objects

For their safety and that of the community, refrain from putting any sharp or bladed weapons in homeless blessing bags. This includes scissors, knives, and steel forks, among others.

7. Matches

For safety and security reasons, avoid putting matches, lighters, and anything that might ignite a fire for security reasons. Aside from being a fire hazard, homeless people probably won’t have much use for it anyway.

8. Broken/ Worn Out Stuff

There’s nothing wrong with donating old clothes and stuff to those in need. But you must make sure that it’s still in good condition. If donating new ones is impossible, ensure they’re not broken or have holes. Don’t give them things that you wouldn’t use or wear. They are already at the lowest point in their lives. Don’t insult them further by giving them stuff that belongs to the trash.

9. Canned Goods with no Pop-Top Openers

Canned goods are ideal for blessing bags. They last long and are very portable. But you need to make sure they have pop-top openers. Not many homeless people carry a can opener with them.

Items To Include in Homeless Blessing Bags

When creating Blessing Bags for the homeless, it’s important to include items that provide comfort and meet basic needs. Here are some of our suggestions:

1. Toiletries

Include travel-sized items like toothpaste, soap, deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, and moisturizer/hand cream.

2. Personal items

Add essentials like pads and tampons, washcloths or face/body wipes, dental floss, and a comb/brush.

3. Non-perishable foods

Include granola bars, energy bars, tuna/cracker packs, trail mix, raisins, peanuts, and fruit cups. You can also consider adding a spoon and gum/hard candy.

4. Hydration

Bottled water is essential to include to help quench thirst.

5. Basic necessities

Pack items like socks, gloves, and face masks for protection.

6. Gift Cards

Ensure you give gift cards to stores within walking distance of them. Walmart or Target gift cards are often the perfect choice.