UPDATE: The annual coat drive organized by KTVF has just completed, with the United Way of the Tanana Valley (UWTV) rapidly distributing over 1,400 pounds of winter gear to those in need in Fairbanks, Alaska. This urgent effort comes as the community rallies to support evacuees affected by Typhoon Halong.
Between September 22 and October 12, community members generously donated winter items at Bailey’s Furniture and Walden Home Group. These items were then cleaned at Northern Laundry Services before being sorted and made ready for distribution. As Sarah Hollister, Executive Director of UWTV, stated, “Seeing the community show up with so many coats and everyone willing to help really is just an amazing feeling.”
The collection includes hats, boots, gloves, snow pants, and coats in all sizes, catering to individuals from two months old to adults. A team of seven volunteers worked tirelessly over four hours to prepare these items for distribution at UWTV’s headquarters on North Cushman Street.
On Tuesday, October 17, Student Support Services collected warm winter coats specifically for evacuees from Typhoon Halong. Hollister emphasized the importance of addressing emerging needs: “This need came up right as our coat drive was happening, and so we were so happy to be able to support and give them coats,” she said.
With rising economic challenges, the demand for warm clothing is critical. “We’re able to supply new coats to families struggling to make ends meet,” Hollister added. “All of these coats go to people in need within our community.”
The coats will be distributed through UWTV’s 15 partner agencies, including Fairbanks Youth Advocates, Farthest North Girl Scout Council, and Interior AIDS Association, ensuring that the gear reaches those who need it most.
If any items remain after partner agencies collect their share, UWTV plans to open the distribution to the public. Hollister encourages community members with freshly laundered coats to drop them off at UWTV’s office by Friday. After that, additional donations can be made to other nonprofits, including the Fairbanks Resource Agency, Salvation Army, and Fairbanks Rescue Mission.
The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated, especially as the community faces the aftermath of Typhoon Halong. With many residents in dire need, the collective spirit of giving shines brightly in Fairbanks, reaffirming its reputation as the “Golden Heart City.”
As the situation develops, stay tuned for further updates on how the community continues to respond to the urgent needs of its residents.
