(Eureka) — Humboldt County Office of Education Youth Education Services and the Purposity app have joined efforts to bridge the gap between community members and families in need. Over 200 local individuals have downloaded the app to participate in the effort to help connect families in need with members of the community who can meet needs.

The non-profit organization, Purposity was formed to connect the critical, physical needs of people vetted through established local nonprofits and schools systems with users who want to help through using the app. Local students who need basic, essential items like boots, coats and clothing are those targeted for help through the local Purposity efforts.

“Purposity is an app-based way for our community to give back to students and families who have unmet needs,” said Lucy Robson, Homeless Youth Caseworker at Humboldt County Office of Education’s Court and Community Schools program. “To participate, community members can download the app and follow ‘Humboldt County Office of Education’,” she said.

According to Robson, when needs are posted, those who have the app will get a notification and can choose to fill the need. She explained that “needs” are usually low-priced items like a pair of shoes or a winter jacket. “It’s like online shopping—but for someone else,” she said. To submit a “need”, people may reach out to Robson or their Foster/McKinney Vento case worker at local schools.

The Humboldt County Office of Education’s parent and family resources include promotion of projects supported by Foster & Homeless Youth Services. They are widely supported by many of the 31 local school districts in Humboldt County.