Central York Optimist Club is collecting donations for Covenant House Pennsylvania in York. 

In a statement on their website, Covenant House said, “Covenant House Pennsylvania (CHP) is a program for young people in desperate situations age 21 and under. Our goal is to help young people facing homelessness become healthy, happy, responsible, productive, and independent adults.”

Until Dec. 11, the club accepted basic hygiene products, gently used or new clothing and backpacks. 

The Optimist Club is doing the drive because giving hope is something very important to them.

“Optimist Club’s goal is to spread optimism, so by giving hope to those who may need it was a good way to connect with the people of York. Donating is a simple way to bring optimist to others,” said committee chair and sophomore Karoul Garas.

Committee chair Edha Gupta, a sophomore, said, “As the York committee, we wondered how we could positively contribute to York in a way that would benefit those who may need it. So we brainstormed a few ideas, and realized this was a genuinely nice and giving idea.”

These donations will be of benefit to many people.

“This drive gives the shelter a lot of necessary items  for the people that go there. The people that don’t have anywhere else to go, come to these shelters for a place to stay, and donating will help us insure that people have a place to sleep and to live a healthy lifestyle. We are donating basic items that we use everyday, to help the people of york,” said Gupta. 

“I honestly believe that it may also help people mentally. Through these donations, maybe someone can find optimism and it might make their day,” added Garas. 

This holiday season, the Optimist Club is staying true to who they are.

“The mission of the Optimist Club is to spread optimism and hope around the community, really help in any way we can,” said Gupta.

Late donations can be given to the Panther Pantry.