AUBURN — In an effort to help the homeless, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish’s Outreach Ministry plans to hold a major item collection on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 26 and 27, for those served at St. Catherine of Siena Residence and St. Martin de Porres Residence, both in Lewiston.

The items most in need at the residences will be the focus of the collection: toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shampoo, body wash and shaving supplies.

Those who are able to donate are asked to bring their items to Sacred Heart Church at 8 Sacred Heart Place in Auburn, or St. Philip Church at 2365 Turner Road in Auburn before, during, or after weekend Masses and place them in the large blue barrels located in the narthex of each church.

Weekend Mass times at Sacred Heart Church are 4 p.m. Saturday and 7:30 and 11 a.m. Sunday, while St. Philip Church hosts Mass at 9:15 a.m. Sunday.

The St. Catherine of Siena Residence offers both shelter and hope for homeless women, while St. Martin de Porres Residence does the same for men, according to a news release from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland. The residences were founded by Brother Irénée Richard, and guests receive food, a place to stay overnight, and a hot shower.

During the day, they must work to better their situation by going to rehab, getting counseling, or seeking employment.

For more information or to learn about other ways to help the residences, call 207-786-4690.