What Are Your Basic Living Needs?

Philanthropy 30 August 2009 | View Comments

In my goal to help people who are truly in need, I’d like to explore basic living needs. I don’t mean absolute bare minimums, but necessities to live respectably. I’ve compiled a basic list here, but I would love to hear your suggestions. I’m thinking about the existing institutions in place that may or may not offer these, and how they can be possibly improved. Coming up with a solid list is the beginning of my project.

Clothing

Note: Clothes are climate-depandant, in this case I’m focusing on places that are generally warm.

  • 1 x  Pants
  • 3 x Shorts
  • 1 x Belt
  • 5 x Shirts
  • 1 x Tennis shoes
  • 5 x Socks
  • 1 x Heavy Socks
  • 7 x Underwear

Bathroom

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Comb or Brush
  • Razor
  • Deodorant
  • Shaving cream
  • Soap
  • Shampoo
  • Toilette Paper
  • Towel

Other Possessions

  • Knife
  • Fork
  • Spoon
  • Bowl
  • Glass
  • Plate
  • Pillow

Access To

  • Monthly hair-cuts
  • Dresser
  • Bathroom
  • Shower
  • Laundry Room
  • Kitchen (with pots, pans, recipes,  supplies)
  • Mattress
  • Blanket
  • Sheets
  • Privacy in some form for a few hours a day
  • Organized and unorganized, regular social interaction
  • Counseling (mental, financial, drug/alcohol, etc.)
  • Napkin
  • Library (w/ library card)

Professional Requirements (Shared items)

  • Computer with Internet
  • Khaki Pants
  • Black shoes
  • Black socks
  • Black belt
  • Collared, Nice shirt

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  • Stephanie
    If you're focusing on a generally warm area, I'd suggest adding a pair of sandals :)

    I also think you should have a pen and paper under other possessions!
    And also, gender specific: toiletries, Bras (unless that is included in "Underwear") and a means of birth control.

    This list has really gotten me feeling more grateful for what all I have :) Thank you
  • Gabor
    Most of this i agree with, and can't think of anything else to add.
    Tough as far as shaving cream goes, even though it's in my bathroom i rarely use it. Usually i just soap up my face and shave, it gets a closer shave.
    Also the mattress, i can see how it would be a need for some, but i sleep on the floor covered by blankets (by choice); it makes my back feel better than the mattress.
    Other than that, nice list!
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