United Way Distributes 1,400 Pounds of Winter Gear in Fairbanks

The annual coat drive organized by KTVF has successfully concluded, with the United Way of the Tanana Valley (UWTV) now distributing winter clothing to those in need within the Fairbanks community. This year, the initiative collected a remarkable 1,400 pounds of winter gear between September 22 and October 12, 2023.

Community Contributions Make a Difference

Community members dropped off items at locations such as Bailey’s Furniture and Walden Home Group, where they were later cleaned by Northern Laundry Services. According to Sarah Hollister, the Executive Director of UWTV, the outpouring of support has been heartwarming. “Seeing the community show up with so many coats and everyone willing to help really is just an amazing feeling,” she stated. “There’s a lot of hard things going on right now, but seeing that our community still has a bright spot makes my heart full.”

The collected items include hats, gloves, boots, snow pants, and coats, catering to all sizes from infants to adults. These donations were sorted by a dedicated group of seven volunteers who worked for four hours at UWTV’s headquarters on North Cushman Street. From this central location, the organization’s 15 partner agencies, including Fairbanks Youth Advocates and the Interior AIDS Association, will distribute the items to those who require assistance.

Support for Typhoon Evacuees

On the same day, Student Support Services collected winter coats intended for evacuees of Typhoon Halong, which affected many communities in Western Alaska. “We really pride ourselves on addressing emerging needs, and this need arose right as our coat drive was happening,” Hollister explained. “We were so happy to be able to support and give them coats.”

This year, economic challenges have made it increasingly difficult for families to afford necessary clothing. “With many families struggling to make ends meet, we’re able to provide them with new coats for their growing children,” Hollister noted. “We’re also able to supply coats to local rescue missions and shelters, where people are in the most need.”

If any winter items remain after partner agencies have taken their share, UWTV will open the distribution to the general public. Hollister encouraged community members with extra coats to drop them off at UWTV’s office before Friday, October 13. After this date, donations can be made at other local nonprofits such as the Fairbanks Resource Agency and the Salvation Army.

The success of this coat drive highlights the resilience and generosity of the Fairbanks community, reinforcing its reputation as the “Golden Heart City.” As winter approaches, these efforts will undoubtedly provide warmth and comfort to many families during a challenging season.