Asheville Gears Up for Winter with Coats for the Cold Event
As winter draws near, the crisp air in Asheville serves as a gentle nudge to remember those who might be feeling the chill a little more than others. This Saturday, November 2, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Western Carolina Rescue Ministries (WCRM) is set to host their annual Coats for the Cold event, a much-anticipated opportunity for community members to receive free winter clothing.
What to Expect at the Event
The Coats for the Cold event aims to provide essential winter gear to those in need, including coats, hats, gloves, scarves, and socks. Everyone is invited to come and “shop” for these items at no cost, with distributions occurring on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will take place outdoors, right in the driveway next to WCRM’s campus at 225 Patton Avenue.
Challenges Under the Surface
Putting together an event like this isn’t without its hurdles. Amanda Putnam, the Chief Development Officer for WCRM, shared that this year presented unique challenges due to Hurricane Helene, which affected many local businesses typically involved in coat collections. “Many of these organizations were closed or impacted by the storm,” Putnam explained.
To overcome this obstacle, WCRM has reached out to individuals across the state for donations. As a result, many items available at the event will be new and won’t require much preparation. This is especially important since the goal is to ensure that everyone attending can find warm clothing to help them through the winter.
Ensuring Fairness and Community Spirit
WCRM is focused on making sure everyone gets an equal chance to receive winter gear. To achieve this, they are putting limits on the number of garments each individual can take. Volunteers will be on hand to help attendees find the right sizes and ensure these limits are met, allowing for a more organized distribution process.
After the event, any leftover items will be donated to WCRM’s clothing closet, which operates twice a week, run entirely by volunteers. “Many of the people who come to our event are sleeping on the street,” Putnam shared. “The coats we provide help keep them warm throughout the winter when they have limited options to escape the cold.”
Besides coats, WCRM also distributes hats, gloves, socks, scarves, hand warmers, and blankets. These items contribute significantly to the safety and comfort of those braving the harsh winter months.
Safety Measures for a Smooth Experience
Organizers are also taking careful steps to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved. Staff and residents will oversee the activities, helping to maintain safety protocols throughout the event. They will monitor the number of guests allowed at any given time, ensuring that the distribution runs smoothly and comfortably for all attendees and volunteers.
A Call for Community Support
For those unable to attend the event, WCRM welcomes donations of gently used or new winter gear throughout the season. Items can be dropped off during designated donation hours at WCRM. Interested community members can reach out to Amanda Putnam for more information on how they can lend a helping hand.
Fostering Compassion and Community
As the chilly temperatures creep closer, events like Coats for the Cold hold immense importance in assisting individuals who may be struggling. By providing essential winter wear, WCRM not only keeps people warm but also cultivates a sense of community and compassion during these challenging times.
For anyone wanting to learn more about WCRM and their broad range of initiatives, feel free to check out their website for further info. Let’s keep Asheville warm this winter, one coat at a time!
