Cold weather, warm hearts: Winter gear drive for local families set for Saturday, Nov. 15, in Sioux Falls

Indivisible 605 and 50501 South Dakota are organizing a winter gear clothing drive for local families. Benefiting the St. Francis House and The Banquet, winter gear will be collected from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday inside Remedy Brewing, 401 E. Eighth St. in downtown Sioux Falls.

With rising grocery costs, inflation shrinking purchasing power, and programs like SNAP facing billions in budget cuts and funding disruptions, people have less money in their wallets to stay warm. As residents of South Dakota we all know how cold the winters can get so we're asking the community to come together and donate gently used or new winter gear for the upcoming winter. 

“As a single parent it was difficult to find money for everything that my family needed,” said community organizer Melaney Sohm. “I want to help relieve some of that pressure for families in today's world.”

The items most needed are gloves and hats; however any clothing donations will be accepted to help keep people warm this winter. Children’s clothing is especially needed, as kids grow quickly and parents often struggle to find new gear that fits. If you have gently used gear or items your family has outgrown, consider stopping by to donate them. These items will stay local to Sioux Falls and be distributed to families and individuals who may be choosing between food on the table and a coat to stay warm.

Andrew Cedergren of Sioux Falls is a community organizer for Indivisible 605.

Photo: graphic courtesy of Andrew Cedergren

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