Cambridge shelter looks for winter clothing donations as need grow
The Cambridge Shelter Corporation, also known as The Bridges, is asking the community to donate “like new” or used winter clothing for adult men it serves before the snow hits the ground.
Thousands of pairs of socks are needed to help keep men experiencing homelessness warm this winter. Along with that, it is also seeking hundreds of donations for mittens, gloves, and toques, along with, winter boots and hand warmers.
“Stuff like that goes a long way in getting the guys through the winter,” Wayne Paddick, executive director for Cambridge Shelter Corporation, said. “We are constantly in need of things like socks, underwear and mitts.”
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Paddick said they are seeing the need continue to grow and are reaching capacity at their three shelters at an alarming rate.
“The numbers are increasing, and the need is increasing for winter weather. We’re seeing the number of folks that are staying outdoors is increasing and our population is also ageing so the need to stay warmer is a higher need for a higher amount of our individuals.”
Paddick added they will also give away winter coats and clothing to men on the streets who aren’t staying at shelters.
Right now, the shelters currently run between 75 to 80 per cent capacity depending on the time of the month. Paddick mentioned they are also working with the region to get people inside before the snow starts to hit the ground.
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“We don’t have a lot of leftovers from last winter, so we’re starting from scratch each winter… So now is a really good time to go through your closet at home, really have a look at what you’re wearing and what you’re not wearing and then feel free to reach out to us to make a donation,” said Paddick.
Winter clothing donations can be dropped off at 26 Simcoe St. where The Bridges is located. Paddick said those with larger donations can arrange a pickup with them.
Funds can also be donated online to The Bridges with the subject line “winter clothing” to ensure the funds go towards providing winter clothes.
