A new not-for-profit charity has recently started up in PG that helps deliver basic items to the homeless.

Spare a Pair was co-created by Danika Serafin and Veronique Gauthier in October.

Photo Credit: Spare a Pair

According to Serafin, the now growing initiative originally got its start as a needs assessment school project.

“We noticed there was a huge gap and lack of access to fresh produce that was available to the homeless,” said Serafin. “So one night we went out with hot, fresh soup and we were blown away by how much need there is in the downtown.”

The duo noticed that basic needs including socks, underwear and tampons were not available to the homeless and that these items were not easy to donate.

“People weren’t wearing socks and it was below zero. Many places don’t have these items because you have to donate them brand new,” said Gauthier.

Photo Credit: Spare a Pair

When the team finished their first walk, they realized that the need was bigger than a one-time project.

Feeling inspired, the two created a list to ensure that everyone's needs were met the next time they went out.

“When we were out we asked what people needed so the second time we went out we brought tampons, granola bars, socks and hot beverages. They also asked for backpacks,” says Serafin.

Since starting this initiative, volunteers have gone out three times to provide items to those in need.

According to Gauthier, it can take anywhere from six to eight weeks to gather the items that they need in order to go out and hand them out on a walk.

“We are planning on going out three times in the school year. So October, February and March,” said Gauthier.

Photo Credit: Spare a Pair

Serafin claims that the response from the community has been very positive.

“People don’t accept the items unless they need them. We had some people turn down certain things because they didn’t need it,” said Gauthier.

The creators of Spare a Pair hope to one day create permanent donation drop off boxes at CNC and UNBC. For now, those who are interested in donating can contact the initiative through their Facebook page.

“Basic needs are not being met and through this initiative, it gives the opportunity for the public to put faces to those people in need. We eventually want to grow Spare a Pair to be a safe and judgement free platform where someone can contact us and get what they need,” said Serafin.

“We don’t want anyone to go without their basic needs.”