Today is the last day of the annual Drive on the Line blanket drive, and the organizer is sending a “bat signal” for the community’s help.
Greg Ould, co-founder of Blanket BC Society, wants Richmond community members to know that blankets are important for saving lives this winter.
“Blanket drives have an immediate effect on those who need to stay warm because they get donated straight to shelters after the drive,” he explained.
The blanket drive, which allows the public to donate new or gently-used blankets and warm clothing to stations along the Canada Line from Richmond to Vancouver, began yesterday and will wrap up by the end of today.
This year, Ould is hoping to collect at least 2,300 blankets, which is the total amount collected last year.
He told the Richmond News the drive has encountered challenges including the lack of volunteers, but he is thankful for those who were able to help out as they are the ones making a difference and ensuring people can be kept warm.
One volunteer in particular, Fumika, was indispensable in her efforts to coordinate and schedule volunteers for the event.
Ould added that he hopes the need for blankets is not overlooked by the community, and that the City of Richmond can keep it in mind for the upcoming months.
The annual Drive on the Line blanket drive is ongoing and will end at 5:30 p.m. today.
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