Keeping Neighbors Warm clothing drive begins
MIDDLETON, Wis. (WKOW) — As temperatures drop, Middleton is ensuring all community members have a way to stay warm this winter. Visit Middleton has kicked off its annual Keeping Neighbors Warm clothing drive.
Residents can donate gently-used or new winter gear such as coats, boots, hats, scarves, and snow bibs for all ages. Donations are accepted at four locations: Middleton Library, Keva Sports Center, Willy Street Co-op West, and the Middleton Visitor Center.
A donation bin at the Middleton Visitor’s Center collects winter clothing for Visit Middleton’s “Keeping Neighbors Warm” drive; one of four drop-off locations accepting items through November 5.
“It’s heartwarming just to start seeing the donations roll in,” said Laura Portz, Visit Middleton’s convention and event services manager. “Sometimes somebody will come in and fill up the bin with one person’s visit.”
“If it’s anything that you would wear outside to keep warm, that’s what we’re taking,” said Portz.
The donations will be collected weekly by Visit Middleton staff and delivered to WayForward Resources for distribution.
“WayForward Resources is servicing more families than they ever have in the past,” Portz said. “So the demand is there, and we know that every little item helps.”
Portz said there is significant need for items for school-aged kids and teens.
Last year, the city donated a record-breaking 699 winter items, and organizers hope to top that number again. The drive runs until November 5.