Altona churches team up to collect warm winter gear for Union Gospel Mission
ALTONA, Man. — A group of seven local churches in Altona is urging residents to donate winter clothing and essentials for people experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg.
Organized by area pastors, including Richard Bage of South Park Mennonite Brethren Church and Jeff Krahn of Altona EMMC Church, the initiative is focused on gathering items such as toques, mittens, jackets and boots for the Union Gospel Mission.
Community churches join for winter clothing drive
Bage says the idea grew out of conversations among pastors who wanted to support vulnerable people during the coldest weeks of the year.
“We realized Christmas is right around the corner,” Bage said. “We all have a bunch of services coming up and we said, ‘Let’s use this as an opportunity’ to invite people to bring items to donate so they can get them to Union Gospel Mission.”
Union Gospel Mission provides a range of services for people living on the streets in Winnipeg, including drop-in meals, programming for children and addictions recovery. With winter weather intensifying, the need for warm clothing and boots is urgent.
What to donate and where to drop off
Churches accepting donations include:
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Victory Family Church: Services Dec. 21 and 28
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Gospel Family Church: Dec. 21, 25 and 28
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Grace Community Church: Dec. 21, 25 and 28
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Altona Filipino Church: Dec. 21 and 28
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Bergfeld EMMC: Dec. 21, 25 and 28
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Altona EMMC: Dec. 21, 24 and 28
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South Park Mennonite Brethren: Dec. 21, 24 and 28
Mid-week drop-offs are also available at Altona EMMC or South Park Mennonite Brethren during regular office hours through Dec. 29, the final day donations will be sent to Union Gospel Mission.
Items in demand
Donations of new or gently used winter essentials are being accepted, especially:
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Toques
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Mittens
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Winter jackets
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Boots (good condition)
“If you wouldn’t wear it yourself, don’t pass it along,” Krahn said, emphasizing the importance of quality items for their intended recipients.
Residents are encouraged to participate and help ensure those without shelter stay warm this winter.
Enjoy the full conversation between CFAM host Zack Driedger, Pastor Richard Bage and Associate Pastor Jeff Krahn below:
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