It’s more than just a bar of soap. It’s about providing an opportunity for those in need to have a fresh start to their day and maybe even a personal boost to their self image this holiday season. AAA Washington — including the Redmond AAA — kicked off its seventh annual Soap for Hope donation drive to collect toiletry items for local shelters, food banks and other charitable organizations across Washington and northern Idaho. It will run now through Dec. 31.

Donations may be dropped off at the Redmond AAA store located at 7950 164th Ave. N.E., Suite 102. Donations made at the Redmond store will benefit YWCA Family Village Redmond.

As a result of the generosity of local businesses, community partners and members, AAA Washington has collected nearly 500,000 toiletry items for local charities the past six years, and distributed more than 8,700 pounds of donations last year alone.

“The program has really taken flight the last several years, allowing us to really make a difference for those in need in our local communities,” said Clara Pellham, AAA Washington regional manager. “With the holiday travel season right around the corner, it’s a great opportunity for travelers to bring back a few items to donate.”

So, want to be a part of something big? Scan your cabinets and gather items from your last trip, including unused and unopened hotel shampoos and soaps. Donations of new, full- and sample-size toiletry items such as conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes are accepted at all AAA office locations in Washington and northern Idaho.

“There are people and families in our community that directly benefit from the generosity of others that donate,” said Pellham. “It’s really the small luxuries that make a big difference around the holiday season.”

For more information, including a list of recipient charities, visit www.aaa.com/SoapForHope.