THUNDER BAY – Two local groups are coming together with the goal of giving thousands of people in need some new socks and underwear.
The SHIFT Young Professionals Network and Leadership Thunder Bay are partnering to launch their Get Back to Basics drive to raise socks and underwear throughout the month of February.
SHIFT president Samantha Mihalus said those necessities are often overlooked.
“When it comes to February it’s very cold in Thunder Bay and it’s those basic necessities that we feel was a gap,” Mihalus said at the campaign kick-off at city hall on Tuesday.
“Outerwear, food are pretty much provided. Everyone is very generous here in our city but we have to step back and realize it’s these basic fundamentals that we were missing.”
Organizers of the campaign have set a goal of raising enough essential items for 3,000 people.
It’s an achievable target, Mihalus said.
“When it comes to something like this, we take it for granted,” Mihalus said. “I know for myself, putting on a pair of socks in the morning is something you don’t really think about someone is missing out on. I think the community will definitely shine on this, take advantage of this and really support our community effort.”
Organizers of the campaign will distribute donations to Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Our Kids Count, Beendigen, Faye Peterson Transition House and Shelter House.
Leadership Thunder Bay president Matthew Villella said the initiative is an opportunity to demonstrate community leadership and address a major issue in the city.
“When you’re homeless or down and out, a warm pair of socks and clean pair of underwear might change your outlook on the day,” Villella said. “That’s something desperately needed in the community.”
The campaign is looking to bring in both male and female socks and underwear for all ages.
“There are some campaigns for children, for women,” Villella said. “We figured let’s get everything we possibly can for the month of February and try to make a difference.”
Dilico Anishinabek Family Care, Our Kids Count, Beendigen, Faye Peterson Transition House, Shelter House
Items can be dropped off until Feb. 28 at the SHIFT office at the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Kelsey’s, Montana’s, city hall, Marriott Townplace Suites, Sleeping Giant Brewery, Jones & Associates Insurance and Smith’s RV Centre.
