As winter approaches in South Carolina, providing warmth and comfort for those without shelter is crucial.

Even South Carolina temperatures can be dangerous for individuals without proper shelter and clothing. Exposure to the elements can lead to health issues such as hypothermia and frostbite.

Hope Missions of the Upstate in Anderson, located at 213 S. Towers St., is working to support the homeless community through its 2024 Backpack Drive.

The non-profit organization collects essential supplies such as toiletries, snacks, socks, and other items to provide warmth and comfort.

Donating warm blankets, thermal clothing, and hygiene products can help ensure homeless individuals have the necessary resources to stay safe during the colder months.

Dave Phillips, executive director of Hope Missions Upstate, said all donated items directly support individuals experiencing homelessness.

The backpack giveaway supply list is available at this link.

Here is a list of items Hope Missions of the Upstate seeks.

Hope Missions of the Upstate needs 300 of each item to fill all backpacks.

"This ensures that every person receiving a backpack has consistent supplies to help them through the winter," Phillips said. "Last year, we received fantastic support and were able to distribute approximately 300 backpacks to those served by HOPE Missions: The LOT Project, Asher House, and South Main Chapel and Mercy Center."

Here is a completed list of collected items.

Hope Mission 2024 backpack drive will be held on Monday, December 23, at First Presbyterian Church's Family Life Center (a basketball court-sized facility).

Volunteers are encouraged to arrive by 9:30 a.m. to assist with setup. The event will conclude around 11:30 a.m. as individuals experiencing homelessness fill their backpacks with essential winter supplies.

Phillips said anyone interested in volunteering can contact him at 864-359-2396, his mobile phone at 703-398-9471, or visit their office at 213 S. Towers St.

Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the event runs smoothly, from setting up the venue to assisting individuals in selecting their needed items.

Phillips explained that instead of pre-packing the backpacks, shoppers will escort guests to each station where they can select items to put in their backpacks. Participants will receive a backpack and punch card at the first station.

"After that, guests can select items at various tables set up around the area and choose the items they want," Phillips said.

"Based on last year's experience, we are considering having as many as 15 stations," he said.

About three years ago, the organization observed that many organizations were distributing backpacks, allowing individuals to go from one location to another to collect them, Phillips said. This led Hope Missions to adopt a more personalized approach by setting up a station where guests can choose the items they need most.

"It all began during a crucial meeting where we invited various organizations to discuss collaborating on a singular event," Phillips said.

He explained that the idea was to join forces to provide attendees with various items, such as backpacks filled with essentials. He added that by working together, they were able to offer a wider selection of options and enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.

Phillips emphasized that this method respects the dignity of the individuals served and ensures they receive the specific supplies they require.

Phillips said that since they started this collaborative approach, it has been a huge success.

Phillips mentioned that they placed a bulk order with HOPE Missions to save money and ensure consistency in the backpacks. The cost per case of 24 backpacks is $354.

Here is a list of how much each sponsor has donated.

Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at [email protected].