Nicosia, Cyprus. The Cyprus Red Cross on Monday urged the public to donate clean, usable items, highlighting the year-round work involved in distributing essential goods to people facing financial and social hardship.
The organisation said humanitarian assistance through the collection of clothing, food and other essentials remains among its longest-running and most important activities.
Collection and distribution
The Red Cross said every donation goes through an organised process, supported largely by volunteers, including receiving, sorting, preparing and distributing items with dignity to people in need.
Although clothing donations are among the most visible aspects of the initiative, collection points at all district branches accept a wider range of goods.
These include non-perishable food such as pasta, rice, legumes, canned goods, cereals, cooking oil and coffee, as well as personal hygiene products including soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, baby nappies and adult incontinence products.
Items accepted
The organisation also accepts clothing and footwear, bedding, baby formula and food, school supplies, children’s books and toys, hospital beds and mobility aids, including wheelchairs, walking sticks and crutches.
Kitchenware, furniture, electrical appliances, children’s equipment and bicycles can also be donated by prior arrangement.
Condition of donations
The Red Cross said the programme’s success depends on the condition of donated goods, as every item must be inspected, sorted and prepared for immediate use.
It urged the public to donate only clean, functional items in very good condition.
Clothing should be new or in excellent condition, washed and separated into men’s, women’s and children’s items, as well as summer and winter clothing. Bedding, footwear and household goods should also be in good condition and ready for immediate use.
