Karma Box Donations Provide Community Members With Everyday Essentials

Karma Boxes, supplied by donations, provide free necessities to those in need.

If you visit Reno (or perhaps other large cities), you may see a wooden cabinet with glass windows housing toiletries, first-aid items, and nonperishable foods.

This is a Karma Box, a project started by Reno local Grant Denton as an accessible way for people to provide for others in need. The project was started because Michelle Joy, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Carson Tahoe Health, saw the community need and the opportunity for Carson Tahoe to help. Carson Tahoe is just one of several organizations embracing Karma Boxes in Northern Nevada.

“The Karma Boxes let people know Carson Tahoe is here to help,” says Alan Garrett, President and Chief Executive Officer of Carson Tahoe. “It’s also an easy way for us all to give back to our community in a simple but effective way.”

How Do Karma Boxes Work?

People can take what they need from the Karma Boxes at any time and at no cost. Similarly, anyone can donate toiletries, first-aid items, and food at their convenience.

“I recommend people donate items they would find useful if they found themselves in a similar situation,” Garrett says. “It’s why we call them Karma Boxes, because you never know when you may need a helping hand. Carson Tahoe monitors the donation boxes placed outside of their locations and encourages members of the community to chip in. The Karma Boxes are a good way we can work together to lift others in times of need. We want to extend our hands beyond the care we give inside the hospital.”

What Can I Donate?

Nonperishable food items, such as:

• Applesauce
• Beef jerky
• Bottled water
• Cheese or peanut butter crackers
• Chips
• Fruit cups
• Fruit snacks
• Granola bars
• Individual packs of crackers, cookies, or chips
• Nuts
• Sports drinks
• Trail mix

Hygiene items, such as:

• Adhesive bandages
• Combs or small brushes
• Deodorant
• Diapers
• Feminine hygiene products
• Lotion
• Mini first-aid kits
• Nail clippers
• Tissues
• Toilet paper
• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Sunscreen
• Wet wipes

Clothing items, such as:

• Hats (beanies or ball caps)
• Lap blankets
• Scarves
• Socks
• Undergarments

Miscellaneous items, such as:

• Bags (to carry belongings)
• Encouraging notes
• Fast food or grocery store gift cards
• Flashlights
• Hand warmers
• Plastic utensils
• Reusable water bottles

Karma Boxes are located at the bus stop at the Regional Medical Center, main entrance at the Specialty Medical Center, and the Urgent Care entrance at the Minden Medical Center. Donations are always welcome.