'Let us unite to create a warmer community for all' in Peterborough

Source: Yahoo

Peterborough County-City Paramedics (PCCP), in partnership with local governments and an area dry cleaner, is hoping to wrap people in warmth this winter.

PCCP, the County of Peterborough, the City of Peterborough, One City Peterborough, and Windsor's Dry Cleaning Centre have announced the launch of the second annual "Blankets for People" campaign, running from January 8 until March 15.

The initiative helps provide blankets and sleeping bags to community members in need this winter.

"After the tremendous success of our inaugural year, bringing warmth to numerous individuals, we are delighted to announce the launch of the 2024 Blankets for People campaign," said Craig Jones, Peterborough paramedics deputy chief, community programs and emergency management, in a media release.

"PCCP urge(s) everyone capable of making a difference this winter to participate in Blankets for People -- an opportunity to share the gift of warmth with those in need within our community. In a time where many lack access to fundamental living necessities, let us unite to create a warmer community for all," he said.

Community members can start dropping off new or gently used blankets beginning on Monday (January 8) at Windsor's Dry Cleaning Centre, located at 655 Parkhill Rd. W. in Peterborough. Windsor's will professionally clean donated items at no cost, the partners noted. The blankets will then be delivered to the Trinity Community Centre at 360 Reid St. in Peterborough.

Those needing a blanket or a sleeping bag can stop by the Trinity Community Centre, approach staff, and receive a clean blanket or sleeping bag, with no questions asked. Blankets for People aims to ensure a barrier-free environment, where anyone in need can receive assistance in a non-judgmental atmosphere, organizers said.

Blankets will be available for drop off and pick up until March 15.

New this year, with support from the eight townships, partners are encouraging Peterborough County residents to attend upcoming "pop-up" drop-off and pick-up locations taking place throughout the campaign.

Peterborough paramedics and county staff members will be attending one public skating session in each township, where residents can "fill the ambulance" with blanket donations. Those in need can also pick up a clean blanket at one of the pop-up locations.

Locations include:

- Township of Cavan Monaghan - Cavan Monaghan Community Centre on Sunday, January 14 from 1 to 2 p.m.

- Township of Selwyn - Ennismore Community Centre on Sunday, January 28 from 1 to 2 p.m.

- Township of Havelock-Belmont Methuen - Havelock-Belmont-Methuen Community Centre on Sunday, February 4 from 1 to 2 p.m.

- Township of North Kawartha - North Kawartha Community Centre on Saturday, February 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

- Township of Douro-Dummer - Douro Community Centre on Sunday, February 11 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

- Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan - Otonabee Memorial Community Centre on Sunday, February 18 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

A pop-up location in the Municipality of Trent Lakes is yet to be announced.

Natalie Hamilton, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, KawarthaNOW