Highlights of some of the unique offers available in the Clearinghouse

If you are here for the Been There Clearinghouse, please visit our new site: www.beenthereclearinghouse.com.

Through the Been There clearinghouse, people across the country and around the world have offered to donate thousands of things to the victims of Katrina. From diapers to children's clothes, to interview outfits for adults, the generosity has been enormous. The amount and variety of donations has been amazing.

With that in mind, we thought it would be helpful to list some of the more unusual items being offered, from supplies for diabetics to homemade soaps to offers to pay to move people out of state. In addition, a number of people have specific questions about making donations which you might be able to answer. If you would like to read of these offers or try to address the questions, click on the link below.

UNIQUE ITEMS:

I have 8 bags for the kids. They all have either a puppet or a doll and toys and one has a note pad with a pencil. Lots of fun stuff in there. I am 7 years old and I made the puppets and dolls. I live in Los Angeles. Where can I send these toys to the children that need them? Email: jandj@pcmagic.net

We are in Fort Lauderdale Florida and can help with 50 XL t-shirts, either picked up by someone going down there or mailed if someone needs them. If you have an address where mail is being delivered please write and I will send them. Also if there is a single mom with a baby who needs help relocating to South FLorida, we could help there also. By helping you find a job, set up an apartment, get babysitting, etc. Cindi Email: Writercindi@aol.com

Hi, I'm a soapmaker and have lots of handmade soaps available. I will ship to where you are. Thanks, Anchalee Grinins Email: tuke@optonline.net

I have a child who has struggled with severe reflux/dairy/soy allergy, and I have some of his very costly ($50/can) formula left over that is still good. Children who need this formula and don't get it can suffer SERIOUS physical pain! These children cannot tolerate your typical milk or soy based formula, or even the special broken down formulas. I know what my baby went through (horrendous screaming for MONTHS), and I am picturing these few special babies who are being fed normal formula because that is all their poor mothers can get their hands on :( This formula has to be ordered thru a special company and/or pharmacy, and is not available in any store. It is called Neocate. There are some other, more common formulas out there with somewhat similar sounding names, but this is not the same. I want to donate some of my extra Neocate to a baby (or babies) who needs it! I feel bad for all those children, but a child who needs Neocate and doesn't get it will be in perpetual pain and suffering on top of what is already going on. I don't want to simply send it without knowing if there is a need, as a normal baby should NOT drink it. It is very costly, and I want it to get in the right hands. emaiI: krispietreat@hotmail.com

My house burnt down when I was a junior in high school and people helped us, so I want to help someone else. I have two boys, age 9 months and 2. I am a size 10-12. My husband is an XL, 38 waist. We can donate clothing and other baby and toddler items. I would be willing to adopt a family with similar family ages and sizes and send all I can. Please let me know and we can try to figure out how to get you enough to get you started. I just recently became a stay at home mom, so I have suits or casual clothes. Most of my husbands clothes are work clothes. Melissa in Georgia Email: morrowmd@bellsouth.net

Free housing for small family in Annandale, Va ... we have a spare bedroom. If you can get to an airport we can probably arrange tickets ... we have a 17 month old daughter and a friendly dog. Tammy Email: teapot292002@yahoo.com

I would like to help a family of 4 move relocate to Miami until they can go back to New Orleans. I can provide housing, money for food and other needs plus clothes and toys. Our area of Miami was not damaged during Andrew - it is inland and very nice with great schools. Call 786-271-1862 if intereted. Janneth Email: sunlend@yahoo.com

I coordinate "Bags of HOPE"; we are quilters and sewers that make backpacks and fill with items for children that will bring them joy and hope. We are looking for items to fill the backpacks and as always those to sew them ... easy for a beginner sewer ... just contact me for information. Thanks sew much. wenda coburn Email: wenda@twcny.rr.com URL: http://www.wendacoburn.com

I work for a non-profit organization for children in PA called the Center for Creative Play, & we are very eager to help families in need. We have a large amount of gently-used toys for infants through age 8. Please contact me via email if you are interested. I am extremely excited to have the ability to connect to these children & families; my heart goes out to both the victims & the wonderful people who have opened their homes & lives in these desperate times. Michelle Zaffary Email: mzaffary@hotmail.com or michelle@cfcp.org

I have at least, 2 packages of Depends adult diapers. They are they extra absorbent, button tab type. I also have Cottonelle cleasing wipes. These were my Mom's but she doesn't need them at the nursing home. Hopefully, someone else can use them. Phyllis Email: izzysmydog@aol.com

Here are my items. I can ship the clothes on my dime, but I don't think I can ship the larger items. If anyone is planning on staying in Iowa, please email me and we can set a drop off or pick up point. 1) 18 mos. boys winter clothing (large box); 2) Glass top coffee table; 3) Osh Kosh stroller; 4) Portable stroller (the small fold away one); 5) Excer-saucer (shaped like a car); 6) Mens size 34x32 jeans (4 pair); 7) Various assorted Mens T-shirts Large (very good condition); 8) Two kitchen chairs (wood); 
9) Two kitchen chairs (wood w/fabric seat). Please email if these items are needed. Chris Email: drummers@pcpartner.net URL: http://deputyswife.blogspot.com/

I have some gently used women's clothing in size 4 to 6 in pants/jean/bottoms and medium to large in tops. Some new women's clothing items in many differnt sizes. I have video tapes (sorry, VHS not DVDs) of many, many movies. Diabetic blood glucose testing lancets, brand new in unopened boxes. I also can make toiletry sacks with all new items including a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, a comb, a few bandages, deodorant and a small bottle of shampoo. Amy B Email: LiquidSolace@aol.com

I have women's clothing, size 6, mostly casual/business casual, and some shoes, size 8.5. If you're desperate for an interview suit, I have a red one (power color?). I have toddler shoes (boys--could be unisex) sizes 7-9. I have a random assortment of pots, dishes, silverware. I have at least half a dozen like-new stuffed animals suitable for 1-3 years, lots of other gently-used 6mos--2 years soft toys, a dozen baby/child books (g'night moon, etc.). Momzom Email: momzom@mindspring.com

Comments

[june izzi]

My sister has a home that will be in forclosure soon ...It will cost about $1000. dollars to catch up, she will sign the house over to anyone taking the mortage over. Needs some work /near a lake in Prescott, Michigan. payments are now $316.a month. 2 bedroom. She is ill and living with me.Huricane needy only

[Stacey]

I have tons of baby items: clothes, toys, books, strollers, walkers, basinett, etc.! What can I do to get these items to hurricane victims who need it? Thanks.

[KTP]

Does anyone know how best to ship things? I would imagine that the postal service, UPS, Fedex, etc. are the best ways but are they inundated with donations? I'm just worried that whatever I send won't get there fast enough.

[Karen]

I have a portable baby crib that I would be happy to send to an evacuee who needs it. I will send bedding with it. It is for babies 0-3 months and sits on the floor.

[Tracy Hicks]

I have about 8 bags of clothing (women's size 16-18-many sweaters)and shoes (women's size 7 1/2), as well as several boxes of baby boy clothing (size 3-6 months and 6-9 months) that I would like to donate to any of the hurricane victims that are being relocated to Massachusetts. I can deliver them. I also have items to help in stocking a new apartment/home: dish towels, glasses, plates, cleaning supplies, washcloths, towels, etc. If you're relocated to MA, please contact me and I'll deliver the boxes/bags to you.

[Laura McMullan]

Does anyone know if there is a large shippment (i.e. a truck) leaving from anywhere near Detroit? I have a lot of people here in Ann Arbor willing to contribute and wanting to send things down to refugees but the shipping costs are huring our efforts.

Thank You!

[Pamela]

I have nice toys and baby and childrens clothing. Men's clothing , women's clothing. I live in orange county, ca. I would love to send these items. If anyone has a truck going from orange county to the shelters. Please let me know. also I would love to get together with other familes to sponsor a family for rent, food, clothing,utilities. Thank you pamlea Harper

[Sierra]

I have about 23 stuffed animals they are in good condition. Please tell me if you know a place i can send them.

[Julie]

Hi. Our home does not have enough room for a family affected by Katrina, but I would love to help refugees relocating to the MIlwaukee WI area. I could donate food, clothing, household things, etc to help you make a new start. Please let me know if I can assist you or yours. Julie

[Linda Winters]

We are offering Free use of our gyms to any hurricane victims relocating to central Indiana.

[Robyn Weiss]

I am spear-heading a drive for the victims of Hurricane Katrina in South Florida. I am very involved in the construction industry and I am a teacher at Florida Atlantic University and I have sent out a broadcast email to all my business associates, friends and family. We would like to put together a caravan to leave Saturday, September 17th. If you have any items that need to be picked up, please call me 954-579-0864 or you can drop off your donations to Florida Radio by appointment only. To make arrangements call my Robyn 954-579-0864 or Janice Materiale - 954-275-4217. God Bless You!! OR if you know of any family who we can help, please email or call me. Thanks!!! Robynweissconsw@aol.com.

[Danielle Williams]

My name is Danielle and I'm a proud mother of 3 we lost everything due to Hurricane Katrina one of my kids has special needs. We are in desperate need of clothing. WE are currently staying in Baton Rouge with my brother and 20 other family members times are getting harder but yet i'm still holding on if any one can help us please email me at dantrelynn@yahoo.com A YOUNG MOTHER CRYING FOR HELP
THANK FOR ANY HELP OR INFORMATION THAT IS GIVEN TO US SO THAT WE CAN START OUR LIVES OVER

[Kathy]

If you want to send items, but the shipping is too high check the following places....

Cub scout and Boy Scout troops. I dropped off food and cloths to one here in town who had connected up with Feed the Children, semi's where already promised to get the goods to the people in need.

Churches - the Catholic churches and a non denomination church in my area are collecting items to be sent.

Also....check your newspaper...We have a special section on How to Help storm Victims.

Hugs...Kathy in Tulsa, OK

[Ardis Jackson]

If anyone is driving from Southern California to any of the rescue locations, I have women's clothing size XL, 1X and 2X... good quality, good condition that I'd love to donate. I'll drop off at your location.

[Tracy Hicks]

I have about 8 bags of clothing (women's size 16-18-many sweaters)and shoes (women's size 7 1/2), as well as several boxes of baby boy clothing (size 3-6 months and 6-9 months) that I would like to donate to any of the hurricane victims. Originally this post was for people being relocated to Massachusetts, however, we've recently learned that there will not be a relocation to MA. I also have items to help in stocking a new apartment/home: dish towels, glasses, plates, cleaning supplies, washcloths, towels, etc. Please contact me and I'll ship out to whatever address you are at.

[Renee]

Infant and toddler toys in great condition. Will ship them to you.
Email me.

[carol masemore]

Hi All,
I live in the Philly Suburbs. I have been in contact with Friend Ships in Lake Charles, LA. They are willing to accept and distribute all goods. I also have a shipping company lined up that is willing to deliver. I would like to offer up my home as a collection point. What we are in most need of is, batteries, tools for building, nails etc, blanktes, camping supplies. All of these will get into the hand of those in need. Please help, you can contact at carolmasemore@comcast.net. I am in montgomery county PA.
Thanks

[StoneHedge]

We have a beautiful home that we can share with dispaced Americans and there pets. We are located in Ontario, Canada. We have limited funds however we are willing to share what we have. Nursing care available.
Also will take in displaced equines.
email stonehedge@allstream.net

[Jason Bainbridge]

To assist in a geeky sort of way I'm offering free hosting (preferrably a Wordpress blog) to those effected by the hurricane, just contact me via email or my website (click my name below) and I will set it up for you.

[Meli]

I have a sofa that is almost brand new and some other household items that I can donate. Please contact me if anyone knows how to get them to families in need or especially if you are a family hit who can use this. I am in Philadelphia, PA.

[lisa mulqueen]

i have childrens toys,stuffed animals and some clothes for a one and a half year old girl.I will send it if I really know it is going toward katrina victims
716 825-3326 my name is lisa mulqueen.

[WB Willow]

Does anyone know whether or not it is legal to donate medicines from just me and not a drug co? I have some unused prescriptions I could offer, but don't know if it would be legal to send them?? Thanks for the info ( I think an MD might know the answer to this one)PS-they're not narcotic or schedule 3

[SUSANNE POWELL]

I FORGOT TO SAY THAT IF ANYONE WANTS TO SHIP THINGS TO ME I WILL MAKE SURE THEY GET TO THE CHURCH.
I HAVE 2 CHURCHS THAT I AM HELPING OUT.
FIRST BAPTIST BATON ROUGE LA
FIRST BAPTIST ST FRNACISVILLE LA
MY ADDRESS IS
SUSANNE POWELL
3012 HUNDRED OAKS # 1
BATON ROUGE LA 70808
PHONE 225-334-9297

GREAT WORK GIRLS AND THANKS AGAIN

[Tara Steinmetz]

A Wider Circle is a nonprofit organization seeking to provide long term relief to victims of Hurricane Katrina and assistance to those housing victims in the Washington, DC area. Services include assistance in providing food, toiletries, etc., stress management and relaxation techniques and workshops, and computer and job training skills. Visit our website or email for help. If you have any needs, please contact us. We're here to help any way we can.

[Patti Brown-Chlapowski]

We have pulled together the resources to house a family of 4 in St. Petersburg, Florida. We have rented an apartment for the cause and can pay the utilities, etc. for up to 6 months for a family that is in need. We can also provide transportation to get them here. I own a small business and my husband is a Firefighter. Let me know if you know of a family. I am also checking with the New Orleans fire dept to see if they might have a family. We are still trying to furnish the apartment if anyone can help with that.

[Brandy York]

I live in Wake Forest, NC and have numerous baby items, car seats (infant and toddler), high chair, walker and many toys. Plus girls clothing 3mo.-3T, all of which is slightly or never used. I would love for these items to go to a family in need. I can afford to mail a small box but, the larger items I can not. However, I could deliver these items to any where in the Raleigh or the surrounding area to a family that has taken in others and may not have larger baby items. If anyone is is need please, let me know!

[Linda]

I Live between Daytona Beach & Orlando FL. Would like to help a Katrina family with housing and financial assistance. Elderly or family with children

[Sherry Leonhardt]

I would like to extend our prayers and our help from Lovell WY. I have a 2 bedroom Mobile Home that we can offer to a family in need. We are a close knit community and have pooled together many rescourses for a family to relocate or get back on their feet in Big beautiful Wyoming. I have a gift shop here so we have many many things available such as baby and childrens clothing, and all accessories for children. We have a wonderful school system and a community that will out pour love and help on a family. I have too many rescourses to list here, please contact me and I will be happy to go over it. We in Lovell Wyoming extend our best wishes, love and prayers to all the victims of hurricane Katrina and hope to help someone soon.

[Teresa Stein]

Hi, I have two bags of clothing and a big box of toys to donate. Please email me with an address to send this out too. I also have two bottles of formula.

Teresa Stein

[carolyn]

Hi, I have womens clothes sizes 8-10 all in good condition. Where should I send them?
Thanks

[Doreen Torrillo]

I have gently used girl clothing in sizes ranging from 0-3 months to 24 months. I also have a few receiving blankets, bibs, snowsuits and other baby items. I also have some childrens books and toys. I live in New Jersey but will ship to a family in need.

[Heidi O'Neil]

Hi

I was reading the posts and thought maybe you could give us a hand. My name is Heidi, and I live in Ocala, Florida. My brother and his wife and children however live just outside New Orleans, and needless to say were evacuated, and after many years, I am reunited with my brother, met his wife and their 2 precious girls. (Ages 2 and 3) I will probably get to meet my nephew soon too, as my sister in law is VERRRRY pregnant. ( We think she started haveing labor pains today) We have clothes for the children, however we do not have toys for them, and they do get bored rather quickly. I am also on disability, and can't help a whole lot, but we are together and they are safe. Right now we are all piled into an efficiency appartment, but it would be great for the girls to have toys.

If you could help us in anyway, it would be greatly appreciated.

Heidi O'Neil
I can be emailed at: chb2771@earthilnk.net

[Heidi]

oops, make that : chb2771@earthlink.net

[Debbie Deshotel]

I have a sister that lost everyting, she is located in the hammond , la area now, but was in metarie la, I guess she needs an appartment to help get on her feet, and will go from there, she did work at the East Jefferson Hospital, but now has no job, or no car, if anyone can help please e mail me,
Her name is Darlene, anything would be appreciated, thanks

[Laurie]

I have a large quantity of women's clothing in good condition, sizes 14-18. I also have girls' clothing, sizes 4-10. I have lightweight and heavyweight clothing. Casual and dressy. Also, assorted shoes for a girl, sizes 12 through 1. And assorted shoes for women, sizes 6-1/2, 7, 7-1/2. I will ship to anyone who needs these things.

[Donna McBurnett]

I am in the DC area and I have several bags of clothing sizes 9/10 and some 13/14 if anyone in the DC area needs clothing for kids preferably teenagers, please send me an e-mail and I can bring the items to you..

[Donna McBurnett]

my e-mail address is dmmcburnett@acf.hhs.gov...

[Kimberly Atkinson]

My Mother and I have alot of Children to Adult size clothing we would really like to donate to the victims of Hurricaane Katrina.
The clothing ranges from newborn to adult sizes. we also have children toys, books, stuffed animals. I am looking for someone who is taking donations in the Port Huron area in Michigan.

[Carnanco Land Transfer, Inc.]

I am the owner of a title insurance company servicing all of Pennsylvania. We are offering discounted pricing to hurricane victims who are relocating and purchasing homes in Pennsylvania.

[Alex]

I've been watching the news all these days, wanting to do something and now I have the means to, this is great. Keep up the good work guys. I have baby boy clothes newborn to 24 mos. (mostly basics: onesies, socks, PJs, sweatpants) and baby boy shoes 3 mos. to size 5. I also have a walker and exersaucer and a few small toys, all gently used. Anyone affected by Katrina who is in need of these items, please email me.

[Ervin Whitaker]

I have an home that will be used to house hurricane Katrina people. I need help fixing it up and providing bedding for them!

[Ronna]

If there is a family relocating to Los Angeles because of Katrina, I have furniture to help get an apartment or house going. I have a sofa, kitchen table and chairs, bookshelves, coffee tables, lamps, etc. Please email me if you know of a family, or are getting a group together to sponsor one.

[Paul]

My name is Paul I am from New Orleans. Just like the many stories that has been told, I have lost everything. My family has relocated to Illinois to start over some-how. I have 4 children (9yrs, 5yrs, 2yrs, 3months) that I am trying to care for. Eventhough I am working part-time to care for my kids and family, I feel that a little help is still needed untile I find a "full-time" job. Thing needed for my family is "coats", "baby items", and some monetary donations for food, ect. (if possible). I can be contacted at (504)931-4865 or agefp7th@yahoo.com
I would like to thank you in advance for whatever you feel is needed for my family.

[Corinne]

The company my husband works for is looking looking for an equipment opporator (they can train) and another 'brusher' (that is what I do). The job is a lot of traveling and stay ing on job sites. But it would be perfect for a husband/wife w/o children. My husband and I enjoy it. We could help with living arrangements (camper or tavel trailer) It may help someone get back on thier feet financialy. Decent wage- and no bills :)

valcorie@hotmail.com

[Rachel Wilson]

I am locating in the Illinois area
and is in need of furniture for an
apartment. If you know of anyone
who would be willing to donate
furniture please contact me at
609-239-9489. Thanks

[michelle]

I lost my vechile in the hurricane and dont have no way to get to work. I have a 4 month old baby and need help with finaces to get another car if ou are willing to help please email me at lilbit39212@yahoo.com and i will give you address to send help. It will be greatly appreciated. Thank You

[Cindy Olstead]

I have a Travel Trailer for sale. I just need to cover the loan on it. The loan amount is $14,000. The trailer is a 2000 Salem, 37 foot, sleeps up to 8 people comfortably. There is a master bedroom in front, a Living/Dining area with a bump out, a full bath, and a bunk room in the back.
I thought someone may be able to use it for housing somewhere. It is in perfect condition.
I also have household items and clothing to donate.

[TESSA RAYNORE]

I AM FROM GULFPORT MS MY 2 CHILDREN AND I LOST EVERY THING IN THE WAKE OF KATRINA I HAVE SEACHERD FOR ASSISSTANCE WITH OUT MUCH LUCK WE ARE IN NEED OF EVERYTHING FROM MONEY TO WINTER CLOTHING FOOD ETC.MY SON IS 4 YEARS OLD AND MY DAUGHTER IS 2 .THEIR NAMES ARE JASON AND KARISMA. WE ARE CURRENTLY IN OLATHE KANSAS AND WOULD BE GRATEFUL FOR ANY HELP PLEASE CONTACT ME AT 913-254-7589 FOR FURTHUR INFORMATION. THANK U TESSA

[Precious Newcombe]

Baby Girl Clothes:
I have a bag overflowing with baby girl clothes that i would love to give someone. Sizes 0-9 months.

[karen]

Im working with mental health clients and they are badly in need of clothes. Please do help/ Size 10-12
thank you