CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The volunteers at Daily Bread Soup Kitchen are preparing for their annual Knapsack Project, aiming to provide guests with knapsacks filled with cold-weather essentials, toiletries, and small gifts as the winter season arrives. The 2025 effort will run from December 1–12, and community members are encouraged to help fill the sacks with items listed on the organization’s website, dailybreadsoupkitchen.com.

Brand new items can be dropped off daily at Daily Bread, 116 N. First Street in Champaign, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Donors are asked to use the back door in the alley. Additional drop-off locations include the homes of Ellen Harms (705 S. Elm Blvd., 356-2551), Pam Hagle (713 S. Elm Blvd., 359-3245), and Ruthann Evans (4414 Crossgate Dr., 398-5687). Tax forms will be available for contributors.

Organizers say this annual effort is a meaningful way to bring “some of the joy and magic of the season” to guests at Daily Bread. Volunteers stand ready to pack the donated supplies into red knapsacks for women, green for men, and Christmas-themed knapsacks for children. “If you bring the STUFF, Daily Bread Soup Kitchen volunteers can STUFF the knapsacks and help to make Christmas a little merrier for all,” the announcement said.

Requested Items for Adult Knapsacks

1. Toothbrush/Floss

2. Toothpaste

3. Shampoo/Conditioner (bottles under 18 oz; 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 preferred)

4. Soap

5. Deodorant

6. Lotion

7. Chapstick

8. Handwarmers

9. Razors/Shaving Cream for men/women

10. Small purse-size Kleenex
    Hat
    Warm gloves
    Scarf
    Socks
    Snack item
    “Fun” item (calendar, deck of cards, puzzle book, journal, etc.)

Requested Items for Kids’ Knapsacks

• Toothbrush/Toothpaste

• Candy

• Gloves and hat (unisex colors)

• Socks

• “Fun item” such as a puzzle book, coloring book, crayons, deck of cards, or stuffed animal

As Thanksgiving approaches, Daily Bread Soup Kitchen says it is “counting our blessings.” The organization thanked local media and supporters for helping share news about its mission and the rising demand for meals.