Chances are high that many of the homeless people in the region have received a blanket, coat or multiple changes of clothing supplied through the Realtors Care Blanket Drive.
Although the annual blanket drive is now so successful it assists thousands of underprivileged in the region by equipping dozens of charities and community service organizations, the original goal of direct distribution to those most in need remains at the heart.
"What our blanket drive does is provide the first line of defence for our most vulnerable citizens living outside," says realtor Louise Boutin. "Many of our recipient charities distribute what we collect right on the streets and regularly see repeat clients coming back for a change of clothes or a sleeping bag to protect them from the rain, cold and concrete."
Donna Crocker, a volunteer veteran of the blanket drive in North Delta and co-ordinator of Friendship Providers in Action, adds, "I wish that the thousands of individuals, businesses, corporations and realtors who donate every year could see the gratitude that we see.
"Smiles, hugs, high-fives and sometimes tears of relief because that clean pair of jeans or even a simple pair of gloves can make the difference between sleeping safely and comfortably or being cold and at risk. Most of all, they feel loved and appreciated."
The blanket drive - the largest and longest-running in B.C. - is now scheduled one week earlier in the year to help as many people as possible in advance of the holidays. The dates this year are from Nov. 18 to 25 when realtors will collect and deliver enough blankets and warm clothing to 39 charities between Whistler and Hope to help 20,000 people this year.
"What we're looking for most is gently-used blankets, coats, gloves, hats, jeans, hoodies and new underwear and socks for both men and women," explains volunteer Kellee Romaine.
Special blanket drive donation bags are available at any of the 100-plus participating real estate offices acting as drop-off locations.
Drop-off locations in South Delta include: RE/MAX Progroup Realty (100-5000 Bridge St. and 1559-56th St.) Royal LePage Regency Realty (1333-56th St.) Sutton Group-Seafair Realty (1625-56th St.) Donations stay within the communities in which
they are donated, or if the volumes are too large, go to charities in greatest need in neighbouring communities. Since 1995, the blanket drive has supported at least 200,000 people.
For more information, visit www.blanketdrive.ca.
