House of Mercy is doing a day-long donation event called “U” is for Undies on June 8.
House of Mercy is a faith-based non-profit in Manassas that provides programs and supplies to those in need, and is located at 8170 Flannery Court in Manassas.
To take part in the donation drive, individuals purchase new packages of underwear – any type, size, or gender – and drive through the parking lot at House of Mercy and throw them in a bin.
Volunteers will be on-site to take the donations and provide a tax receipt if needed.
“We hope to make this an annual event, along with the School Shoes program and Christmas with Mercy. Unlike the other programs, ‘U is for Undies’ helps all our clientele and not just children. A large need really does exist,” stated House of Mercy Assistant Director Felice Hilton in a release.
According to a release, a United States report found that around half of people are “going commando” – not wearing underwear – because they can’t afford it. This includes children at area Title I elementary schools, according to a release.
For some seeking aid, they are forced to choose between a donation of underwear or food.
“I recently was in this situation. I literally had to say to myself, ‘your underpants are in tatters, but I need to buy food. Food always wins’,” stated a woman that receives assistance from House of Mercy.
The goal for the donation drive is to collect enough underwear to help the organization’s clients in need.
