Collections and donations at Pleasant Grove UMC help provide practical support, encouragement, and hope for neighbors in our community throughout the year.
Collections and Donations
Sharing Practical Help With Our Neighbors
At Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, we believe faith becomes visible through love in action. Throughout the year, our church family collects practical items that help support neighbors in Pleasant Grove, western Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond.
Some collections happen every year around the same season, while others are based on current needs in the community. Each donation is one more way we seek to be a Beacon of Light and share Christ’s love through practical compassion.
Seasonal Collections
School Supplies for Be Kind Birmingham
Typical Collection Time: June and July
Each summer, Pleasant Grove UMC collects school supplies to support Be Kind Birmingham as they help children and families prepare for a new school year.
Items may include:
- Pencils, pens, crayons, markers
- Notebook paper and notebooks
- Folders and binders
- Glue sticks and scissors
- Backpacks and other classroom supplies
These gifts help remind students and families that they are seen, supported, and loved.
Winter Items for Be Kind Birmingham
Typical Collection Time: October through February
During the colder months, Pleasant Grove UMC collects winter items for Be Kind Birmingham to help neighbors stay warm.
Items may include:
- Coats
- Gloves
- Scarves
- Hats
- Socks
- Blankets or other warm items when requested
These donations offer warmth, dignity, and care during the winter season.
Ongoing Needs for Be Kind Birmingham
In addition to seasonal collections, Be Kind Birmingham often has ongoing needs throughout the year.
Suggested items may include:
- Blue jeans
- T-shirts
- Tennis shoes
- Men’s underwear
- Socks
- Belts
- Children’s clothing
These donations help provide practical support for individuals and families experiencing hardship.
Christmas Toy Collection
Typical Collection Time: November and December
During the Christmas season, Pleasant Grove UMC may collect new children’s toys and gifts to help bring joy and encouragement to families during the holidays.
Suggested donation items may include:
- New toys
- Dolls and action figures
- Games and puzzles
- Stuffed animals
- Coloring books and crayons
- Sports balls and outdoor toys
- Gifts for older children and teens
These gifts help remind children and families that they are loved, remembered, and cared for during the Christmas season.
Community Sharing Ministries
Blessing Box
Pleasant Grove UMC helps stock the Blessing Box with nonperishable food and practical items for neighbors facing food insecurity.
Suggested items may include:
- Canned goods
- Peanut butter
- Pasta
- Soup
- Shelf-stable meals
- Snack items
- Hygiene items
Learn More: Blessing Box page
Little Library
The Little Library provides free books for readers of all ages in our community.
Suggested donations may include:
- Children’s books
- Devotionals
- Christian books
- Family-friendly novels
- Inspirational books
Learn More: Little Library page
Other Collections We Have Supported
Throughout the year, Pleasant Grove UMC may also collect items for local outreach ministries, mission partners, and community needs. These may include food, hygiene items, household supplies, books, ministry-specific donations, or special seasonal requests.
Collection details may change depending on the need, so check current church announcements for the most up-to-date information.
