Community leaders and volunteers launched a program Thursday aimed at combating homelessness in Orange County.
Through the "Make it a Home" program, volunteers delivered "Welcome Home" kits of food, hygiene and cleaning items to newly housed homeless people.
"If they're going to an interview, they want to be clean, so they need shampoo (and) all the basic hygiene needs to take care of them," said Stan Aron, who is a manager at Bishop's Storehouse, where the kits are assembled.
More than 200 kits were delivered to the Maxwell Terrace Apartments. The converted two-story motel now serves as permanent supportive housing for families in need of a home through a funding grant from Orange County.
Rhonda Allard was homeless for over three years and recently moved into her new apartment. She received one of the kits, which will provide her with a two month supply of necessities.
"It means everything, because now I have a starting chance," said Allard.
Leaders with the "Make It A Home" program said they're seeking area churches to partner with the Impact Homelessness Faith Committee.
Anyone interested helping with the program can find a checklist to donate at rethinkhomelessnes.org.