Tasha Chraska hates the stigma attached to people who are homeless.

“It could happen to us anytime,” Chraska said.

Growing up, she wanted to do something that would help those in need. The 35-year-old was inspired to do her own clothing drive while volunteering for Mission From Mars Pittsburgh. At the shelter, she would help provide meals to those in need.

“I was meeting a lot of people there, and I knew there was something I wanted to do to help them,” Chraska said.

Every year around fall, Chraska spreads the word on social media that she is collecting clothes. The clothes are delivered around November, just in time for people trying to stay warm during winter.

“I do it when seasons are changing because of the privilege people have to get rid of their clothes because they want what’s new,” she said.

This is the third time Chraska is holding the drive. She collects various clothing and personal care items. Her basement is used to store all the totes full of donations. Her children and husband help out with organizing and donating the clothes directly to the homeless community in the North Side.

Her daughter, Eva Bajko, 16, said the experience made her realize how grateful she is for what she has.

“It makes me very happy to know I am doing something good and making other people happy,” she said.

The most donations Chraska received was a couple of years ago. She had 10-12 totes full of clothes. Chraska also spent hundreds of dollars on socks and coats.

Since starting the initiative back up earlier this month, she has already received tons of donations. People interested in giving away their clothes can drop them off at her house, or Chraska can pick them up. Facebook is the best way to reach her, she said.

“I think a lot of people want to help but don’t know how to help,” she said.

Chraska has worked with Mission From Mars by bringing clothes at times when they are hosting events to feed the needy. She knows there will always be a big turnout.

“They’re appreciative. There were a couple people who asked ‘I can take it?’ And I’d say it’s free,” she said.

Every clothing drive she has done has been a success with getting rid of all clothes, a gratifying feeling for Chraska.

“To be able to help other humans, that’s what I am supposed to do,” she said. “The fact I can do that with the help of others makes me happy.”

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