WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— It's the season of giving, and a local shelter wants to spread Christmas cheer to its residents.
28/22 News reporter Amelia Sack stopped by Ruth's Place Women's Shelter earlier Wednesday.
She has more on what's on their Christmas list, and how you can help make their Christmas wish come true.
Ruth's Place is operated by Volunteers of America, and it's the only 24/7 emergency shelter in Luzerne County for women experiencing homelessness.
Staff members say they have been at max capacity all year long, even after adding additional beds.
This Christmas, they are hoping to spread some joy to the many women they serve.
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A gift like fuzzy socks may sound small, but for the women seeking shelter at Ruth's Place during the holiday, the stocking stuffer can make a big difference.
"As we work to help them secure housing, we wanna make sure that they have all the amenities of home and comforts during a time of really great hardship for them," stated Crystal Kotlowski, Senior Director of NEPA Volunteers of America.
That's why Ruth's Place organizes a Christmas wish list each year, asking the community for help.
Kotlowski says items like gift cards, pajama sets, and self-care kits bring some Christmas spirit to the women at the shelter.
"People who are experiencing homelessness are the same as anyone else and they deserve to feel love and comfort around the holiday season and we are encouraging the community to take part in that, show them that there's light at the end of the tunnel," Kotlowski expressed.
Residents at Ruth's Place say the gifts go a long way.
Gift cards can help women purchase necessities like shoes or clothes to put them on the right path.
"It's helpful because I've had a hard time getting into a normal working position again. So having that, I tend to need some resources," said resident Amelia D.
Something as simple as a set of nail polish can spread joy to someone in need.
"We just want to make sure that the community knows that we're here that they have this opportunity to join us in giving hope to somebody who really needs it," explained Kotlowski.
You can drop off donations in person at Ruth's Place. They also have an Amazon Wishlist.
