For some, a little soap can provide an entirely fresh outlook on life. But for others with limited incomes, it's a daily necessity they cannot afford.

AAA Washington is helping by kicking off its fifth annual Soap for Hope donation drive to collect toiletry items for local shelters, food banks and other charitable organizations.

Donations may be dropped off at the Renton AAA office, 3900 E. Valley Highway, No. 105. Donations made at this office will benefit Auburn Food Bank and St. Vincent De Paul.

Thanks to the generosity of AAA members, local businesses and communities, AAA has collected and distributed more than 250,000 toiletry items in the past four years. These items have been distributed to dozens of charitable organizations throughout Washington and northern Idaho.

"We're asking our neighbors for help again this year," said Susan Brahm, manager of AAA's office in Renton. "With the economy's slow recovery, more than ever families in our community need help with basic everyday necessities. The charities we support greatly appreciate these toiletry donations because they are in high demand and cannot be purchased with food stamps."

Donations of new, full- and sample-size toiletry items such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes will be accepted year-round at all AAA locations.

For more information, visit www.aaa.com/SoapForHope.

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