Neighbors First is a community outreach initiative from The Silent Mother Project built around one simple belief: people deserve to be met with dignity, compassion, and real support; not defined by what they’re going through.
Through SMP Neighbor Days and other direct-service projects, we bring local volunteers, businesses, and resources together to care for our neighbors in practical, meaningful ways.
We hope to continue building outreach opportunities shaped by what our community actually needs; from winter supplies and care kits to school items, transportation support, community meals, and future Neighbor Days.
SMP Neighbor Day
@ The Mayflower Tea in Canton, Ohio
1117 Wertz Ave NW, Canton, OH 44708
August 2 | 12:00–3:00 PM
Our first Neighbor Day will serve approximately 30 local individuals experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or significant financial hardships.
Guests will have access to:
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A fresh meal
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Free haircuts
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Clothing and essential items
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Transportation assistance
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Local resources
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A welcoming place to sit, eat, and be treated with care
Help make Neighbor Day happen
There are several ways to be part of this work.
Partner with us
We believe the strongest communities are built when local people and businesses work together.
We would love to connect with:
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Restaurants and food providers
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Barbershops and salons
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Clothing stores
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Transportation partners
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Community organizations
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Local businesses interested in sponsoring supplies or services
Whether you can provide a service, donate an item, sponsor part of an event, or help us reach more neighbors, we would love to hear from you.
Volunteer
We are looking for community members to help with:
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Guest check-in and hospitality
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Food service
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Clothing organization
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Setup and cleanup
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Distributing supplies
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Helping guests move between stations
We are also especially looking for licensed barbers and hairstylists willing to donate their time. Volunteers do not have to stay for the entire event—even a few hours can make a difference.
Make a donation
Monetary contributions will help us pay for food, bus passes, event supplies, and other direct costs associated with Neighbor Day and future Neighbors First outreach.
Wear the Mission
Every purchase helps fund future Neighbor Days and supports our ongoing outreach through the Neighbors First Initiative. Whether you're wearing your shirt to the grocery store, a community event, or around the house, you're helping start conversations and reminding others that every person deserves to be seen.
Because kindness looks good on everyone.
Purchase an item
We created an Amazon wishlist with supplies needed for our first SMP Neighbor Day. Items purchased from the list will be used directly for the event and the neighbors attending.
How the passport system works
To help the event remain organized and make sure we have enough resources for everyone attending, our team is using a passport-style voucher system.
Passports will be distributed before the event through professional contacts and trusted community organizations. Each guest can bring their passport and have it marked as they visit the different stations throughout Neighbor Day.
This system allows us to prepare responsibly while creating a smoother and more personal experience for every guest.