Small Toiletry Donations Being Collected for the Homeless by Kathy Pigott of Roseland

by Carolyne Volpe Curley / Carolyne@WestEssexNOW.com
Published 4:26pm

Credit: Kathy Pigott

ROSELAND, NJ - Kathy Pigott, of Roseland, has always been one to show compassion and goodwill to strangers. For years now, Pigott has been assisting with The Gellman Foundation, a group which hand-delivers needed goods weekly to the homeless of New York City.   

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"These are the folks who are not living in shelters,
but are living their day to day existence on the street," Pigott explained.
"The Gellman Foundation fills a van with donations
and personally finds out what each person needs."

The Roseland resident runs a family business, Mama's Boy Cookies and still finds the time to collects supplies to serve the less fortunate. The Gellman Foundation consistently  visits those who are living on the streets, which in some cases is entire families. The group is always in need of clothing in all sizes - for children and adults - and sweatshirts are particularly welcomed since they are good for adding the layers needed to provide warmth. Backpacks and food store plastic bags also help for carrying possessions.

"I have always believed 'there but for the grace of God, go I'," Pigott expressed. 
"I am grateful to be able to assist, 
in whatever way I can, those who are struggling.
I believe in the POWER OF ONE:  
it takes but one person to touch the lives of those in need.
Get involved in your community and volunteer."

Right now Pigott is collecting the toiletries hotels and motels provide to their guests and no item is too small. 

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"I am reaching out to travelers to let them know that we're collecting
the small toiletries that most hotels offer complimentary.
These small items are the perfect size to distribute to
the homeless in New York City," Pigott explained.
"The homeless have nowhere to store the larger sizes, so the small ones are perfect to use once. It doesn't matter how many a person donates,
if I collect a a large enough amount I'll have enough to send into the city.
My family always brings our own shampoo, conditioner and body lotion
so that we can save the smaller items for the homeless."

Anyone interested in helping should drop off the items to Kathy Pigott's home, located at 38 Passaic Avenue, Roseland, and place them in front of the garage. The bag should be marked, "For NYC." 

38 Passaic Avenue, Roseland Credit: Google Maps

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