Five student organizations delivered boxes and boxes of hope and good will to two Philadelphia charities that serve homeless people.

The Student Bar Association, Christian Law Students, the International Law Society, the Justinian Society, the National Lawyers Guild and OUTLAW delivered clothing and toiletries to St John's Hospice on Race Street, which provides a wide range of services to homeless men.

The student groups also delivered brand new women’s and children’s clothing to Women Against Abuse, a non-profit that serves victims of domestic violence.

Staff from both shelters voiced gratitude for the donations that were delivered on Dec. 15.

Men who make use of St John’s shower program are delighted to receive the gift of toiletries and new or gently used clothing, said Gerry Huot, director of community relations.

“They feel so much better about themselves,” Huot said. “It’s a marvelous gift.”

Maryrose Myrtetus, community engagement associate for Women Against Abuse, said the donations fill a critical need for women and children who often must leave their clothing behind when they escape violence in their homes.

“It’s really great to get gifts like this, especially from the Philadelphia community, because it shows that people care for them and want them to succeed and live lives free of violence,” Myrtetus said. “It means a lot to our staff as well. It’s really nice to have support from the community.”