Because we operate a couple of food pantries, a resale shop, and a clothing distribution area, we ask for (and gratefully receive) food, clothing and household items daily.

For fun, I'd like to share some of the more creative donations sent to us over the years:

• the skull of an unidentified mammal
• a can of "Kick-A** Chili"
• a box of old, rusty batteries
• a yellowed casting of someone's teeth
• x-rated literature
• a can of turtle soup (with a real turtle in it!) that was 20 years old

Occasionally at staff meeting, we'll have a "show and tell" when these items come through, and this provides much levity. But of course these donations aren't exactly what CCSC needs, so below is a list of what we do need:

• non-perishable food, especially high-protein items
• fresh produce
• shampoo, soap, toothpaste & toothbrush, deodorant, etc...
• gently used clothing (note that we're always low on children's and men's clothing)
• feminine hygiene items

And our resale shop takes furniture, household items, and clothing. The shop will sell almost anything, but we couldn't give away rusty batteries or a casting of someone else's teeth, much less sell them. However, unusual but useful items, like the frog pitcher below, are desired.