BLANKET DRIVE
September 25, 2008 – Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Nelson, BC, and Stepping Stones for Success, the only homeless shelter in the Kootenay region, have joined forces during this year's blanket drive. Between now and December 31, 2008, people can take their old sleeping bags (cleaned and usable) to Valhalla Pure an outdoor retail store located at 626 Baker Street, and receive 10% off a brand new bag. The store will then donate the used sleeping bags to Stepping Stones.
"This is a program that I truly believe in," says Sam Baio, owner of Valhalla Pure in Nelson. "I encourage everyone in the area to get behind this community-based effort to ensure people stay warm."
Now that the winter months are fast approaching, those who do not have a roof over their heads will be turning to Stepping Stones for temporary shelter. However, with only 15 beds, there are a lot of times when the shelter is forced to turn people away and for many, sleeping on the street is their only option. However, the staff do their best to keep them warm by giving out clothes, blankets and sleeping bags.
"One of the hardest aspects of our job is having to turn people away when we are full," says Mike McGaw, Frontline Supervisor at Stepping Stones. "We simply don't have the resources to house everyone who knocks on our door and so this blanket drive is a way to ensure people don't succumb to the winter cold."
Aside from clean, used sleeping bags, Stepping Stones is also accepting donations of blankets, packsacks, warm clothes, boots and tents. Those latter items can be dropped off directly at our location: 567 Ward Street, #7 buzzer.
Stepping Stones for Success is a program of the Nelson CARES Society and has been in operation in Nelson since December 2004 with funding from BC Housing's Emergency Shelter Program. In the past four years, the shelter has provided temporary housing to over 650 people.
Nelson's Valhalla Pure Outfitters has been in operation since 1996. The shop on Baker Street is known for its customer service and vast selection of outdoor clothing and gear. Says Sam, "By exchanging your old sleeping bag for a new one, you will be happy you did because someone else will be thanking you at the same time."
For more information contact Mike McGaw by phoning 250-352-9876 or by e-mailing steppingstones@nelsoncares.ca.
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