Spreading Warmth: EMBARC’s Winter Gear Drive

For many refugee families, winter in Iowa brings unique challenges. With limited financial resources (93% of EMBARCs clients are below 180% of the poverty level), staying warm during the cold season can be a struggle. Whatsmore, with eight out of ten families that we work with also having one or more kids under 18 in the home, new winter gear can be urgent to meet the needs of growing kids.  That’s why every year, EMARC hosts its Winter Gear Drive, bringing the community together to collect coats, gloves and other essentials. This initiative helps families have the necessary winter gear to stay warm and safe. 

This year, the response was overwhelming. With donation boxes stationed at our office and hosted by local businesses and organizations, we collected over 200 coats. The generosity didn’t stop there-community members stepped up to sponsor 10 Crisis and Advocacy families, purchasing personalized coats and winter gear for every family member.

As the donations poured in, so did the excitement for our Winter Gear giveaway event where 78 families came to pick out the warm clothing that would meet the needs of their household. It’s more than just a coat drive but a celebration of kindness and community support.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed, from businesses hosting donation boxes to individuals shopping for coats. Your support makes all the difference and we can’t wait to see more efforts for future Winter Gear Drive events. Together, we’re not just keeping families warm-we’re wrapping them with love and community care. 

Want to join us next year? Contact us to learn how you can donate or sponsor a family to spread the warmth even further!