First Universalist is beginning our fifth year of partnership with Augsburg Fairview Academy (AFA). Young adults from diverse communities who face educational barriers to achievement in traditional schools are welcomed into AFA, a charter school that prepares them for college, career and life. The 125+ students come from diverse backgrounds including African American, Somali, and Native American. Many are homeless or marginally housed during the school year.

The Hope Food and Clothing Closets were developed by AFA students in a class on leadership and organization development; they chose this project to meet their needs and to provide hope. First Universalist is the primary contributor to the Hope Food and Clothing Closets.

Volunteers are needed to distribute snacks in the afternoon and to staff the Food Closet after school. Time commitment is 2:30 – 4 p.m. one day a week, Monday through Thursday (or two times a month).

Donations for the Hope Food Closet: Desired items include single serving microwavable soups, mac and cheese, stews, and snacks like fruit cups, granola bars, nuts or cracker and cheese packages. Toiletries needed include toothpaste and toothbrushes, men’s and women’s deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, lotions, condoms, and tampons (note: we don’t need travel size items).

Donations for Hope Clothing Closet: backpacks (black or dark colors), hoodies; t-shirts; skinny jeans for men and women; men’s and women’s underwear and socks; fall jackets. Clothing should be clean, teen appropriate and in good repair.

Bring items to the Hub on Sundays or drop off during the week at the shelves labeled for AFA by the 34th Street entrance. Thank you for your generosity!