Clothing Drive warmed hearts and more this Holiday Season in Williams Lake

Those in need will have access to more warm clothing and supplies this winter in Williams Lake.

Thanks to the generosity of staff and physicians at Cariboo Memorial Hospital the “Warmth for All” clothing drive (October 27 to November 21) was an overwhelming success.

“I attended a Williams Lake Cold Weather Planning working group meeting,” Clinical Operations Director Kelly Dillon said, “and the initiative was intended to support individuals and families in our community who are facing the cold weather without adequate clothing or supplies.”

Andrew Frenette of the Williams Lake Salvation was part of the group and he talked about a couple of resources that they usually tap into during these cold months that were no longer able to support the Salvation Army in clothing and keeping people warm who spend most their time outside or don’t have a place to live.

“And I thought what a great way to come together and support community and to ask all of our staff members, because we have so many, hey do you have anything at home to donate.” Dillon said, “With Andrews help we put together the list of items he was looking for from coats and jackets to blankets, toques, socks and more and we shared that with the entire staff at the Hospital.”

Dillon noted that she was blown away with the amount of donations that came in.

“It estimated a weight of 700 pounds so we literally filled one person’s office up completely. Our bins were brimming, we had to take so many bins, fill them up then bring them down to the Salvation Army van. I couldn’t have been more proud and thankful and more thankful to everyone who contributed to the campaign.”

She noted Health Care workers outside of Cariboo Memorial Hospital heard about our campaign and wanted to join.

“The generosity, the compassion and dedication made such a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve within the community.” Dillon said, “I was truly inspired by the teamwork and the kindness that brought this initiative to life. And I think our success here reflects our unwavering commitment to compassionate care and to the values that define our Hospital and our Health Care community.

Dillon added that they plan to hold this Warmth for All clothing drive again next year and will be putting out a challenge to other facilities and community groups to see if they can support what we’re doing as well.