UPDATE: The United Way of the Tanana Valley has officially begun distributing 1,400 pounds of winter gear to the Fairbanks community, following KTVF’s successful coat drive. This urgent initiative, which ran from September 22 to October 12, has mobilized local support to aid those in need as winter approaches.
Community members generously donated winter necessities, including hats, gloves, boots, and snow pants, at drop-off locations like Bailey’s Furniture and Walden Home Group. After being meticulously cleaned at Northern Laundry Services, the collected items are now ready for distribution.
Sarah Hollister, Executive Director of UWTV, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the community’s overwhelming response. “Seeing the community show up with so many coats is just an amazing feeling,” she stated. “With so many challenges facing us, it’s uplifting to see that we can still come together to help each other.”
Volunteers dedicated their time to sort the donations at UWTV’s headquarters on North Cushman Street. On Tuesday alone, a team of seven worked diligently for four hours to prepare the gear for distribution. The items will be handed over to 15 partner agencies, including Fairbanks Youth Advocates and the Farthest North Girl Scout Council, ensuring those in need receive the winter essentials.
Additionally, the Student Support Services collected warm coats specifically for evacuees of Typhoon Halong in Western Alaska, highlighting the pressing needs arising from recent natural disasters. “We pride ourselves on addressing emerging needs,” Hollister added. “It’s crucial to support those affected by the typhoon while also helping our local families prepare for winter.”
As the community faces economic challenges, this coat drive offers a critical lifeline. “We’re able to supply new coats to families who are struggling to make ends meet,” Hollister explained. If there are any remaining items after partner agencies have taken their share, UWTV will open the distribution to the public.
Residents are encouraged to continue supporting this initiative by donating freshly laundered coats before Friday. After that, additional drop-off locations will include the Fairbanks Resource Agency, the Salvation Army, and the Fairbanks Rescue Mission.
This winter gear drive exemplifies the spirit of community resilience and support, reminding us all of the strength found in unity during challenging times. Stay tuned for further updates on how these efforts continue to impact lives in Fairbanks and beyond.
