LAGUNA BEACH : Friendship Shelter Compiles ‘Wish List’

In an attempt to make Christmas merrier for Friendship Shelter residents, workers have compiled a “wish list” indicating how the community can help.

The list includes gift ideas for individuals who would like to give a present to a resident and suggestions for activities that groups could plan to benefit the shelter.

“We provide as much as we can, but a lot of times there are little extra things we just can’t seem to get,” said Nyla Brignell, a shelter case manager. “And Christmas is a nice time to give.”

Personal gift ideas for residents include alarm clocks, inexpensive watches, robes, sweat suits, socks, slippers, sweaters and portable radios. These items are in short supply at the shelter, Brignell said, and are not often donated.

The shelter itself could use fruits, vegetables, cleaning supplies, toiletries, business coupon books, grocery store or other gift certificates, tickets to special events, Christmas decorations and wrapping paper.

Groups could spread cheer at the shelter by volunteering to provide an evening of songs or desserts, a holiday meal or a Christmas tree. The group could decorate the tree before delivering it or plan a tree-decorating party at the shelter.

In addition, groups could also pitch in by conducting a food drive or by holding a carwash or cookie sale and sharing the proceeds with the shelter, Brignell said.

For more information, call the shelter at (714) 494-6928. Shelter workers request that all gifts be donated unwrapped.

Friendship Shelter is the only homeless shelter for adult men and women in Laguna Beach. Residents are offered temporary housing while they attempt to find jobs and regain their independence.