We are Grateful for Donated Items

york county shelter programs is grateful to those who take the time to find out what we need for our two emergency shelters,layman way recovery center and our food pantry.

We would appreciate your help in collecting items that are frequently needed. However, there are some restrictions involved. We ask that you first check in with our Director of People, Culture & Engagement, Bonnie Leslie, to make sure that we can use what you might want to donate, especially items not included in our Frequent Needs list. She can be reached at (207) 324-1137, ext. 109, or bleslie@ycspi.org. If you prefer, we also welcome gift cards to stores such as Walmart. These can be mailed to Bonnie at YCSP, P.O. Box 1268, Alfred, ME 04002.

Frequent needs

We are often in need of toiletries for our residents. Soap, shampoo, deodorant, combs and hair brushes, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, etc.

We also welcome new pillows, blankets and sheets (twin-sized).

At times we also are in need of clothing. We require/prefer new clothing, especially when it comes to hats, undergarments, socks and shoes. Some gently used items, such as winter jackets, are okay. This is where it is important to discuss your possible donations with Bonnie.

We also welcome items for the children staying in our Family Shelter, such as craft items and toys.

Every Christmas season we invite donations to make sure there are presents under the tree for all.

Our residential substance abuse treatment center, Layman Way Recovery Center, also appreciates donations of craft items.

Another need we have is for people who are transitioning from our shelters or Layman Way to new housing. Again, this is best discussed with Bonnie, who will know what furniture and appliance needs we may have.

As for our Food Pantry, we are always accepting canned and dry goods (such as soup, cereal, pasta, rice, oatmeal, peanut butter, tuna).  We also welcome gift cards. You can arrange for drop-offs with Food Pantry Coordinator Mike Ouellette at mikeo@ycspi.org or (207) 391-3125.

We are grateful that so many compassionate people in our communities keep us in mind when they have items to donate or when they simply want to help fill a need. Thank you -