7 Ways to Give Back: DC Groups That Need Your Support NOW

District of Columbia Public Schools

DCPS (District of Columbia Public Schools) is currently supporting students at-home learning by distributing school supplies, toiletries, grocery gift cards and more. You can direct your donation towards your local school, or contact DCPS to find the schools most in need. Schools are currently looking for pencils, crayons, hand sanitizer, puzzles and more. You can also make a monetary donation here. 

Online: https://dcps.dc.gov/page/make-donation-dcps

So Others Might Eat

For over 50 years, S.O.M.E. (So Others Might Eat) has been serving the DC"s homeless community and those experiencing extreme poverty. This interfaith organization is collecting masks (including homemade ones), board games, cards, puzzles and other activities for kids and adults. They are also seeking over-the-counter medications, like Tylenol and cough drops, household items, including toilet paper and hand sanitizer, and food items like juice boxes, jello cups, granola bars, cereal and more. 

71 O St. NW
Truxton Circle
Online: some.org

A Wider Circle

A Wider Circle provides basic need items to families transitioning out of homelessness or leaving domestic abuse situations. Have baby essentials you want to get out of your house? A Wider Circle accepts strollers, highchairs, changing tables, Pack ‘n Plays, car seats, infant and toddler clothing, and cribs. Your donation could greatly improve the living conditions of our region’s most vulnerable families. Their goal is to help families start anew with dignity and hope.

Safety regulations: A Wider Circle offers contactless drop offs for donors. Weekend drop offs require a reservation 

9159 Brookville Rd.
Silver Spring, MD
Online: awidercircle.org

Green Drop

GreenDrop converts donated items to funds for families in need. They have been selected by various organizations including the American Red Cross, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the National Federation of the Blind and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Philadelphia, to raise funds through the generation and collection of donated items. GreenDrop accepts all articles of clothing, shoes, blankets and bedding, as well as tools, collectibles, kitchenware, toys, small appliances, electronics, musical instruments and sporting goods.

Various Drop-Off Locations around MD and VA or schedule a pick-up
Online: gogreendrop.com

The Buy Nothing Project

You don't need to leave your home to share with others. With the growing trend of "Buy Nothing" groups online, you can post items that no longer bring you joy and  brighten up the day of one of your neighbors (they simply scoop up your goods from your doorstep). You can also share your time and talents. Whether you're a notary public or an online tutor, you can offer your services free-of-charge on these sites to help those that may not otherwise afford them. These sites also let you post things from your personal wish list with one simple rule: money never changes hands.

Online: facebook.com/BuyNothingProject