SAG-AFTRA Convention Delegates Donate Amenities to Homeless Youth

Los Angeles (October 15, 2015)—As the second SAG-AFTRA National Convention closed on Oct. 4 at the Sheraton Universal, convention delegates came together to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Taking collections throughout the convention, delegates collected hundreds of unused hotel amenities, including soap, shampoo, conditioners, lotion, mouthwash, tissues and other toiletries.   

The donation was then presented to My Friend’s Place, a safe-haven daytime shelter for homeless youth ages 12-25. My Friend’s Place provides educational programs in career growth, life skills, health and emotional well-being, transforming the lives of homeless youth for the past 27 years.

“We are thrilled to donate to a truly unique oasis for homeless youth, with an amazing team under the inspired leadership of Heather Carmichael. Many thanks to delegate Jackie Joseph for spearheading the idea and to delegate Jen Levin for finding the perfect place to make a difference. We hope to encourage this type of charitable donation at all National Board meetings and future conventions,” said National Board member and Los Angeles Local Second Vice President Ellen Crawford.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with such a committed and respected organization as SAG-AFTRA to help care for our homeless young people. Your contributions to My Friend’s Place not only have a tremendous impact on the lives of the more than 1,400 youths who turn to My Friend’s Place each year, but also show deep commitment to the broader Los Angeles community. Thank you for helping us end youth homelessness, one young person at a time,” said My Friend’s Place Executive Director Heather Carmichael, LCSW.

Receiving no government funding, My Friend’s Place depends exclusively on the donations of private foundations, corporations and individuals dedicated to improving the wellness, stability and self-sufficiency of homeless youth.