Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you! Here are some ways that you can help: You can make an item(s) to donate to T.H.R.I.V.E. Association, which we will then collect and distribute to those in need during Homeless Veterans Stand Down events. You can also donate materials or make a monetary donation to help us cover the costs of our mission. Another way that you could help is by volunteering to help us at events and within the community. Lastly, you can also share your knowledge of T.H.R.I.V.E. Association and its mission with others through social media to help spread the word!

We strive to use durable and easy-care materials, such as bamboo or man-made materials like polyester and acrylic. Due to the vulnerability of those whom T.H.R.I.V.E. serves, our organization does request that all donated items be made of materials that are durable, non-wool, and machine washable/dryable. We also request that all donated garments be wet-blocked prior to being sent.

While wool is a warm, soft, and quality material, there are a number of factors that limit its practicality. As most of the individuals that we serve have limited resources, we must take into consideration the need to ensure that everything that we make is the easiest to care for. Many alternatives to wool are easier to clean, weigh less when wet, dry faster, and are less likely to cause allergic reactions to some individuals. Bamboo, for example, is an ideal material in place of wool, as it has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-static qualities, while simultaneously being easier clean and to care for.

There are many items that are in need, such as hats, scarves, gaiters, and lap blankets. While the vast majority that we serve are adults, we also accept children’s and newborn sized garments.

We mainly encourage donors to use the patterns that we share via our blog and across social media, as they are easy to craft and have led to consistent, dependable garments. If you intend to use your own patterns, we do ask that all donated items should be respectful, appropriate in nature, and not overly complicated/adorned. We have found that darker shades of black, blue, grey, green, camouflage, red, and royal purple are generally the preferred colors of the veterans that we serve.

It is imperative that all donated scarves are 60 inches (152cm) in length and at minimum 6 inches (15cm) in width. Ideally, the width of scarves bound for Stand Downs in colder climates should be 8 inches (20cm) wide. This additional width allows for the veteran or their dependent to cover from the base of their neck up to the bridge of their nose.