The annual clothing drive has Wrapped up for the Holidays. Left to right are: Natalie Clyke (PAGC), Lyle Karasiuk (Parkland Amb.) and and Donna Hordyski, marketing coordinator for Gateway Mall. (Susan McNeil/paNOW)

By Susan McNeil

Community service

Clothing donations keep pace with previous years

Jan 11, 2023 | 3:54 PM

The number of items given to help some of the less fortunate of Prince Albert stay warm has kept pace with previous years, says the Moose Lodge.

A pile of warm clothes and blankets once again found its way to a collection point at Parkland Ambulance with the Lodge’s Natalie Clyke on hand to collect it.

“The community is so consistent in their kindness and compassion and this is a huge pile,” said Clyke. With some minor variations, the amount collected – much of it in bins at Gateway Mall – is not very different from that given in other years.

Sorters from Moose Lodge gathered the day before to sort the clothing that they already had on hand and make room for the new items.

“We’re seeing about seven to 10 jackets per night for our individuals and with blankets, about four to 10,” she said.

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One change from last year is the increase in the number of people living on Prince Albert’s streets so while the volume of donations is intact, the need has grown.

“This is probably going to safely get us into March and allow us to be able to meet the resources of our people that need it the most,” Clyke said

The need for donations continues so people can call the Lodge when they have items to give and someone will come and get them.

Along with Gateway Mall, CTV and Anderson Chrysler also sponsored the donation drive.

The community effort was lauded by Lyle Karasiuk of Parkland Ambulance.

“I can’t thank the community enough,” he said. “All this wonderful stuff; the blankets, the coats, the boots…”

This was the 15^th year the clothing drive has happened.

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com