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

UPDATE: The annual coat drive by KTVF has just concluded, with the United Way of the Tanana Valley (UWTV) springing into action to deliver 1,400 pounds of essential winter gear to the Fairbanks community. This urgent distribution comes at a critical time as residents face harsh winter conditions and the aftermath of Typhoon Halong.

Between September 22 and October 12, community members generously donated coats, hats, boots, and gloves at locations like Bailey’s Furniture and Walden Home Group. These items, cleaned by Northern Laundry Services, are now ready to provide warmth to those in need.

Sarah Hollister, Executive Director of UWTV, expressed her gratitude: “Seeing the community show up with so many coats is just an amazing feeling. There’s a lot of hard things going on right now, but our community still has a bright spot.” This sentiment resonates deeply as many families struggle to make ends meet this winter.

A dedicated team of seven volunteers sorted through the donations on Tuesday, filling a room at UWTV’s headquarters on North Cushman Street. The organization’s 15 partner agencies, including Fairbanks Youth Advocates and the Farthest North Girl Scout Council, are now picking up these vital items for distribution to their clients.

In a timely response to current needs, Student Support Services also collected winter coats for evacuees of Typhoon Halong, which has recently impacted many in Alaska. Hollister noted, “We really pride ourselves on addressing emerging needs, and this need arose just as our coat drive was happening.”

The urgency of this drive is underscored by economic challenges in the community. “This year, especially, people are having more and more trouble making ends meet,” Hollister added. “We’re able to supply warm coats to growing families and those in dire need.”

After fulfilling requests from partner agencies, UWTV plans to open any remaining items to the public. Hollister encourages anyone with freshly laundered extra coats to drop them off at their office before Friday. After that date, donations can be directed to other local nonprofits such as the Fairbanks Resource Agency, the Salvation Army, and the Fairbanks Rescue Mission.

This coat drive not only meets immediate needs but also fosters a spirit of community resilience in Fairbanks, reminding everyone of the importance of lending a helping hand during tough times.

For more updates on distribution and community efforts, stay tuned as UWTV continues to serve the Fairbanks area.