In Canada, having proper winter attire to survive the harsh weather is imperative, but with inflation and soaring prices, it’s just not a necessity that some people can readily afford.
For over five years, Oosterveld Heating & Air Conditioning in Guelph, in partnership with Hope House, have held their annual winter wear clothing drive, collecting winter gear for those in need.
A local, family-owned and operated business for over 40 years, and not a huge corporation, Oosterveld’s community relations manager, Jennifer Dunsmoor, said they rely on community support, and are always looking for ways to give back to the people who’ve supported them, and their business, for decades.
“This is something Oosterveld does every year and it’s really integral that we’re helping people and helping each other,” she said. “The people that work at and own Oosterveld live in your neighbourhood, so giving back to the community is the greatest gift that we can give to the community to give thanks for supporting us for over 40 years.”
Hope House is a non-for profit that provides resources, services and programs for the vulnerable people of Guelph.
Dunsmoor said, for the winter clothing drive, they’re collecting new and gently used winter items such as coats, boots, hats and mittens, for both kids and adults, at their main office in downtown Guelph.
“Families are struggling as it is with inflation, on top of that some people haven’t recovered from the pandemic and maybe haven’t been working as much or aren’t at all, and donations are at an all-time low so all these factors complied together makes the need so great,” she said.
Proud supporters of Guelph Storm junior hockey team, they are the third partner that help with the drive by also collecting winter wear items for Hope House. Dunsmoor said the Guelph Storm home game that coincides with end of the drive, on October 28, will be sponsored by Oosterveld, and a way for everyone to come together to celebrate the cause.
“We drop the puck, we basically come together and it’s kind of a celebration of the team, everyone’s efforts, and the end of the clothing drive,” she said.
Once the drive is over, all items collected will be given to Hope House, and their team will distribute the items to those in need. Dunsmoor added that although the drive technically ends on October 28, they will be receiving items for at least another week, as every item is needed and won’t be turned away.
To donate warm winter item, please drop by Oosterveld’s head office located at 1007 York Road or the Guelph Storm hockey office located at 50 Woolwich St. Unit B.
For more information, call 519-837-2351, contact them or visit their Facebook page for more details.
