This year's Operation Warmth organizers are pleased by the outpouring of support so far but are still finding themselves short of snow pants in decent condition for children of all sizes.
"We welcome the many donations but it has been a challenge to find snow pants for kids without the knees already worn out," says Lana Mitchell, executive director of Low Income People Involvement of Nipissing (LIPI).
Besides the much-needed donated coats to keep community members protected from the elements that are the foundation of Operation Warmth, the winter clothing drive also accepts a variety of winter gear, including gloves, mittens, toques, scarves, and winter boots.
See original story: Operation Warmth launching in North Bay
LIPI, Rebuilt Resources, Crisis Centre North Bay, the AIDS Committee of North Bay and Area, and the Salvation Army are carrying on a local charitable fall tradition. The organizations are pooling their resources to ensure children and families have clothing appropriate for northern winters.
Operation Warmth ran for 24 years until 2020 when pandemic restrictions forced the clothing drop off and distribution away from the tight quarters of the Redeemer Lutheran Church. Pastor Jerry Slote, now retired, and a healthy team of volunteers ran the operation.
Operation Warmth continues until Tuesday, November 9.
Drop off of gently used coats and winter clothing can be made at:
- The LIPI office, located at 127 Main St E, weekdays only up to, and including Thursday, Nov. 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pick up of coats will be available at the Salvation Army, 134 McIntyre St. E:
- Saturday, November 6, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Monday, November 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Tuesday, November 9, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
