WHO: Families facing homelessness with little resources and no family support. Due to privacy concerns, Covenant Shelter can't identify specific families but donations received will be used to assist families in meeting basic needs.

AGENCY: Covenant Shelter of New London Inc.

THE SITUATION: Covenant Shelter, the only family shelter in southeastern Connecticut, provides families and their children experiencing homelessness with temporary shelter and assistance in securing permanent housing. Covenant Shelter's population changes every few months but families earn little or no income and can't afford to purchase many of the items needed to advance their situation. The families need items that include work clothes, uniforms, work shoes, underwear and bus vouchers.

WHAT TO GIVE: Gift cards to grocery stores or department stores that enable the clients to buy personal items and items needed when moving to permanent housing. School clothing, linens and other small purchases, such as shoes and winter wear, are especially appreciated. In addition, gas cards always are needed.

TO DONATE: Contact Judy Kelsey at (860) 443-0537, ext. 101. The address for Covenant Shelter is 42 Jay St., New London, CT 06320.