“Bundle Me Warm” gives winter clothes to local residents

MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) - Each year the Mankato Salvation Army gathers donations from its thrift store and local community groups to create “Bundle Me Warm,” a free winter clothing giveaway.

Last year’s giveaway saw more than 2,000 items given away to more than 700 residents.

And early indications show that this year’s demand hasn’t come down.

“I had a line out the door for a solid hour and a half to two hours for people waiting to get in and get coats, so that’s pretty telling that the need is greater than last year,” Leslie Johnson with the Mankato Salvation Army said.

That increasing need is an ever-growing concern for community groups who say that time is quickly running out to get prepared for a fast-approaching winter season.

“It is vital for people to have warm winter wear, especially in Minnesota, it gets very cold. We do serve a homeless population, and it is imperative that they have winter wear,” Johnson said.

While this event runs during MEA week each year, resources remain available for thrift store vouchers at the Salvation Army.

And for those with extra winter clothing, donations are always welcome to work towards future giveaways.

“The need is really great; we are collecting at Walmart for the month of October. There are some local churches collecting and I know that Community Bank is collecting for us as well,” Johnson said.

Bundle Me Warm will be at the Salvation Army once again Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and there is no income requirement or paperwork needed to receive clothes.

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