Purses With a Purpose is a Boise-based nonprofit organization that collects new and gently used handbags filled with essential hygiene and comfort items. These purses are donated to women in shelters, transitional housing, and crisis situations throughout Idaho to bring a message of hope, dignity, and compassion.

Founded by local community members who wanted to make a tangible difference for women in need, Purses With a Purpose began as a small grassroots effort. What started with a few friends collecting handbags has grown into a community-wide movement supported by volunteers, businesses, and donors across the Treasure Valley.

Our purses are distributed to women and teens served by Idaho shelters, crisis centers, and nonprofit partners. Recipients include survivors of domestic violence, women experiencing homelessness, and those rebuilding their lives after hardship.

Each purse is filled with a mix of new or unopened essentials such as shampoo, deodorant, soap, lotion, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, socks, tissues, snacks, and encouraging notes or cards. Donors can also include small personal touches—like a journal or piece of jewelry—to make it special.

You can donate new or gently used purses, individual hygiene items, or pre-filled purses. We host regular community collection drives and maintain drop-off locations throughout the Boise area. Monetary donations are also welcome and go directly toward purchasing supplies and supporting our outreach programs.

Absolutely! Volunteers are the heart of what we do. You can help by collecting items, hosting a purse drive at your workplace or church, assembling purses at our community events, or helping with deliveries. Visit our “Get Involved” page to sign up for upcoming opportunities.