Returning for a second year, the “Cougars Give Back” campaign continues this week.

“We started it last year, and it was greatly appreciated,” said teacher and Escalon High School ASB advisor Katie Carbajal. “We’re collecting a few different items for the Modesto Gospel Mission. They tend to get a lot of blankets, toys, and food donations this time of year, but not much for the adult needs.”

So, the ‘give back’ effort is specifically seeking donations of personal hygiene products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, tampons and pads; men’s and women’s underwear and undershirts, socks, and toiletries including soaps, shaving cream, and body wash.

Collection is being done at Escalon High School on Yosemite Avenue.

“We will be taking donations to the Gospel Mission on Friday, December 16, in the afternoon, so we’re collecting this week,” Carbajal added. “The giving bins are located in front of the school office, in the main hallway, and anyone can donate.”

Many students have already brought in donations and they are hoping for even more in the final couple of days of the collection effort to aid those in need.

“I’ve worked with the Modesto Gospel Mission before, and I know that they turn around and immediately share donations with those who need it, so that’s how we chose the organization last year,” Carbajal explained. “We’ve discussed rotating different organizations to donate to each year from now on and spread Cougar kindness and cheer.”