Used clothing stores are popular places for those hunting bargains or with little money to spend.
But there are a few items no one really wants to purchase previously owned. Socks and underwear, for hygienic purposes, quickly spring to mind.
Knowing that not all families have the money to afford new clothing, six years ago the Canadian Autoworkers Local 229, teamed with the CAM Clothing Assistance store, Superior Credit Union and the Christmas Cheer Fund to rectify the problem.
Families that qualify for the Christmas Cheer program who also happen to have elementary school-aged children, will find a coupon in their hamper redeemable for a week’s worth of socks and underwear.
“Basically a lot of kids are going without the bare necessities, which are the socks and underwear,” said volunteer Brandi Pulice on Wednesday.
“They deserve to have brand new socks and underwear. If it’s just a week’s supply of socks and underwear, then it’s just a week’s supply.”
Officials with the Undercover Project are seeking the public’s assistance to help them meet the needs of the community, and are accepting donations at a variety of locations throughout Thunder Bay.
Drop-off locations include the Clothing Assistance Mission store on North May Street, CAW local 229’s office at in the Chapples Building or at the city-owned homes for the aged, including Dawson Court, Pioneer Ridge, Grandview Lodge and Roseview Manor.
They’ll also be accepted at Superior Credit Unions, who will also take cash donations.
Redemption days for the vouchers will be Dec. 13 and 14 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
