Winter clothes drive helps neighbors in need

Local nonprofits and about twenty LGBTQIA groups collected and organized donated winter clothing at a weekend drive in Erie, and volunteers will deliver the items to Community Shelter Services.

A recent cold spell left some community members needing warm clothing, and local nonprofits organized a donation drive to respond. Representatives from roughly twenty LGBTQIA groups and allied organizations spent Saturday collecting and sorting coats, boots and other winter gear at Journey to a Trauma Informed Life on West 11th Street. Organizers described the event as a way to give back and continue conversations among nearby groups. Volunteers prepared the donations for delivery to service providers. Event details: - About twenty LGBTQIA groups and allied organizations participated in collecting and organizing winter clothing on Saturday at Journey to a Trauma Informed Life on West 11th Street. - Michael Mahler of Erie Gay News said it was touching to see people from different parts of the community come together. - Shari Gross of the LGBT Fund at the Erie Community Foundation said the winter has been fierce and there has been a strong need for warm clothing. - Sami Murray and Marti Sawyer of National Fuel Pride Fuel and Allies said they collected coats and boots over a three-week period and were encouraged by the community response. - Volunteers will be dropping off the donated items to Community Shelter Services for distribution. Summary: The drive gathered winter gear and other warm clothing for people affected by recent cold weather, and organizers emphasized cooperation among local nonprofits. Volunteers plan to deliver the donations to Community Shelter Services. Additional distribution details were not provided.