BLESSING BAGS

Here is a simple and tangible way to bless others - blessing bags. They are an easy project for your family or group of friends to create a real way to meet immediate needs and demonstrate the act of giving to individuals or organizations.

To get started, create a list of needed items, purchase and store until you are ready to create the bags.  (Below is a list of possible items, but your family or group may have additional suggestions.)  Create an assembly line to make the assembly fun and quick.  Assemble all the items in the bags, and maybe throw in a note of encouragement. You can keep the bags in your vehicle for individuals or donate to a homeless shelter or organization for distribution.

BLESSING BAGS: Use gallon size Ziplock bags – keeps everything together and from leaking plus can be used later for other storage

Toiletries (travel size or saved from hotel visits):

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Mouthwash
• Soap
• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Deodorant
• Hand Sanitizer
• Sunscreen
• Chapstick
• Tissues
• Comb
• Band-Aids
• Wipes
• Wash Cloth 

Non-Perishable Foods:

• Granola/Energy Bars
• Trail mix
• Fruit cup/applesauce cup (include a spoon)
• Gum/hard candy
• Cup of Noodles 
• Vienna Sausages in a Can
• Crackers
• Beef Jerky Sticks
• Instant Oatmeal Packets w/plastic bowl
• Pudding Cups 

Drinks:

•  Juice Boxes
• Mini Water Bottles
• Hot Cocoa/Spiced Tea Mixes

                        Spicy Hot Cocoa Mix
                              1/2c sugar
                              1/4c cocoa
                              1/4tsp salt
                              1tsp cinnamon
                              3/4tsp cloves
                              1/8tsp allspice
                              powdered milk to make 6 cups

                                   Blend together.  To use: combine 2Tbs with 1c boiling water

Extras:

• Plastic Silverware
• Napkins
• Quarters (calls/laundromat)
• Reusable Shopping Bag
• List of Resources (food bank, clothing bank, homeless shelter)

“A generous man will prosper;
he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”
Proverbs 11:25