Community rallies as winter clothing drive takes shape

There are some developments to report as various community partners are rallying in an attempt to fill the gap left by the cancellation of Operation Warmth due to COVID-19 restrictions.

"First off, we are not trying to take over for Rev. Slote and Operation Warmth," says Justin Fotheringham, a youth pastor at Lakeshore Evangelical Missionary Church. "It's unbelievable what Operation Warmth has accomplished for 24 years. It's incredible. However we can help, we will."

See related story: Have faith: Operation Warmth will return next year

With the blessing of the senior pastor and the board of elders at the church, Fotheringham is teaming up with community outreach groups to help get people the winter clothing needed for the cold months ahead.

Fotheringham says a house adjacent to the church will be used to store donated coats and other winter goods and then a community group led by John MacIssac will handle the distribution of the goods. Some details are still being worked out on the distribution end.

The good news is, community members wishing to donate bagged or boxed winter clothing in accordance with health regulations will have another place to do so.

"We're trying to follow the proper guidelines," Fotheringham says, stressing how important it is for goods to be properly bagged or boxed.

Donations will be accepted at Lakeshore Evangelical Missionary Church, located at 656 Lakeshore Dr., from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., Tuesdays through Fridays.

Fotheringham says no end date for drop-offs has been determined and the church will accept goods as long as there is a need.

"We want to be able to help the community any way we can," observes Fotheringham. "As of Tuesday, we'll be accepting donations."