Summer should be a season of possibility. But for many of our neighbors, it can also bring new challenges. Rising temperatures, limited resources and the rising cost of everyday essentials mean that even something as simple as a clean T-shirt, lightweight pants or a pair of comfortable shoes can make a meaningful difference.
This summer, Catholic Charities of Oregon is inviting our community to help meet that need. Through our Summer Clothing Drive, you can help provide new and gently used warm-weather clothing to women experiencing homelessness and others working toward stability. Every donated item helps someone stay safe, comfortable and treated with the dignity they deserve.
Beat the Heat: Help Our Neighbors Stay Safe This Summer
As temperatures climb across Oregon, staying cool isn’t just about comfort. For many of the people Catholic Charities of Oregon serves, it’s a matter of health, safety and dignity.
While many of us swap sweaters for shorts without a second thought, our neighbors experiencing homelessness or financial hardship often don’t have that luxury. A lightweight T-shirt, breathable shorts or a clean pair of socks can make a meaningful difference during long, hot summer days.
That’s why we’re asking our community to help us stock up on warm-weather essentials.
What We’re Looking For
We’re currently seeking new and gently used summer clothing in adult sizes Small through 2XL, including:
- T-shirts
- Shorts
- Lightweight clothing
- Hoodies and light layers for cooler mornings and evenings
- New socks
- New underwear
- Sun hats
- Reusable water bottles
These items are distributed through Catholic Charities of Oregon’s Homeless and Transitional Services programs, helping women experiencing homelessness and others facing financial hardship stay safe and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
“When someone is living outside or struggling to make ends meet, something as simple as a clean T-shirt or a pair of shorts can make a tremendous difference, said Victoria Waldrep, Director of Homeless and Transitional Services. “These donations aren’t just clothing. They’re a reminder that our community sees them, cares about them and wants them to stay safe this summer.”
How to Help
If you have new or gently used summer clothing to donate, we’d love to hear from you. Please email htpemail@ccoregon.org to arrange a convenient drop-off time at our main office on SE Powell Boulevard in Portland.
Prefer to shop from home? You can also purchase items directly from our Amazon Wish List, and they’ll be shipped to Catholic Charities for distribution.
Every Donation Makes a Difference
Summer should be a season of sunshine and opportunity. But for many of our neighbors, rising temperatures add another layer of stress to an already difficult season.
A simple T-shirt. A pair of shorts. Fresh socks. A reusable water bottle.
These everyday items help people stay healthier, more comfortable and better equipped to navigate the challenges of summer.
Thank you for helping our community care for one another. Together, we can help make this a Summer of Stability for more of our neighbors.