The Downtown Long Beach Alliance has launched a new program to provide homeless individuals with towels and personal hygiene products such as soap, feminine products and first aid supplies.

Donations can be made in cash or by ordering products from a pre-selected Amazon shopping list. Donors can decide to have items sent to one of three nonprofit partners in the city: the Long Beach Rescue Mission, the city-run Multi-Service Center or US Vets.

“When someone in need comes through our doors, the first step of healing and renewal begins with a hot shower, clean clothing and a warm meal to ease the physical distress and a chance to rest,” said Robert Probst, executive director of the Long Beach Rescue Mission.

The Downtown business district also plans to provide drop boxes at several Downtown businesses and residential buildings. The Fresh Start program is scheduled to run through the end of July.