State Rep. Snyder hosting winter clothing drive
WAYNESBURG — As the cold winter months are now in full swing in Greene County, some residents do not have the proper clothing to keep warm.
State Rep. Pam Snyder, D-Jefferson, wants to do something about that. A clothing drive hosted by Snyder is currently being held to help combat the lack of proper thermal winter clothing in Greene County for those in need.
“There are so many people right in our very back yard in need. We have families coming into the office to grab coats before we can even distribute them,” Snyder said. “No one should be cold as we approach the harsh winter months.”
Snyder said that the event is held every year because of the consistent enthusiasm for — and the success of — the program.
“I have held a clothing drive each year that I’ve been in office. As a new legislator I wanted to do something meaningful for the community,” Snyder said. “The first one was such a success that my office has continued it every winter. It’s become a tradition that people in the community remember and look forward to.”
Snyder hopes to bring warmth to the community and said the support is already overwhelming for the drive this year.
“My office is accepting donations for all ages. I’ve been overwhelmed with the support thus far, especially for the kids,” Snyder said. “We have gotten so many coats, hats and boots for children.
Some donors are buying brand new matching outfits and bringing them in. It’s truly heartwarming.”
There are no limitations on donations; however, the focus is primarily on winter clothing. Snyder even encouraged people to consider donating unwanted winter items while cleaning out their closets this fall. She also said entire organizations are holding their own drives then dropping them off to her office. She has received donations by the car load from some organizations.
“We really take anything anyone is willing to donate. It will all go to a good cause and help someone in need,” she said. “We won’t turn anyone down willing to help.”
For those wishing to donate, all three of Snyder’s offices in Carmichaels, Brownsville and Waynesburg are currently accepting donations. Snyder encourages donors to just walk in during the office hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and staff will take care of the rest.
“There are so many people right here at home that could use a new heavy jacket to get them through what is supposed to be a very cold and snowy winter,” Snyder said. “Every donation helps.”
More information is available by calling the main office in Carmichaels at 724-966-8953.