It’s summer and what better time for a “wipeout” — of toilet paper, that is!
This summer, Jewish Family Services food pantry is seeking donations of packages of toilet paper during its summer “Wipeout” campaign to keep the shelves of its two locations stocked. Each month, the pantry provides clients with more than 2,700 rolls of toilet paper.
Toilet paper is a bare necessity SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) does not cover. With the pantry currently serving more than 900 families each month, keeping toilet paper in stock is a challenge. The pandemic increased demand, so JFS is asking for the public’s help.
“We are looking for organizations and individuals to get creative this year and help other families in Kansas City with this essential item,” said Jo Hickey, JFS food pantry director. “It has been amazing to see the difference the community has made in response to the increased need for assistance and demand hasn’t stopped.”
Jump-starting the JFS summer Wipeout drive is a partnership with Theatre in the Park (TIP), Kansas City’s largest outdoor community theatre. During TIP’s seven performances of the musical “Curtains” (June 18-20 and 23-26) at Shawnee Mission Park, patrons are encouraged to bring toilet paper donations to drop off before showtime. JFS volunteers will be on hand to assist with the process. Patrons will receive a coupon for a free box of popcorn as a thank you for each toilet paper donation.
“We’re excited to team up with our friends at Theatre in the Park and encourage theatre-goers to bring along toilet paper as they enjoy a night of entertainment under the stars,” Hickey said.
The community is also encouraged to host a COVID-safe drive at workplaces, in neighborhoods, and through schools or clubs.
JFS provides numerous tools to help make any summer “Wipeout” drive successful including dropping off and picking up barrels or totes for collections, and providing downloadable fliers, email templates, and online resources to help promote your drive at www.jfskc.org.
Toilet paper donations can also be dropped off in designated JFS food pantry barrels in the lobby of the Jewish Community Campus or delivered to the circle drive of the building between 10 a.m. and noon on June 20. Donations can be delivered to the Brookside location, 425 E. 63rd St., by appointment by calling (816) 333-1172 or in the parking lot from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on June 10.
If you are interested in hosting a summer “Wipeout” toilet paper drive this summer, email or call Hickey at (913) 327-8257.
