THE MITTEN TREE at the Melrose Public Library is adorned with donated gloves, mittens, scarves and hats that will be provided to families experiencing clothing insecurity this winter.
MELROSE — For about 33% of families in Massachusetts, there isn’t always room in the budget for clothing, according to an impact report by MA nonprofit Cradles to Crayons. For these families, winter clothing essentials: coats, hats, mittens and scarves are often in competition with other needs, such as food, rent and utilities.
Believing everyone deserves to feel warm and safe, the Melrose Public Library has decided to do something to help the one in three children and adults in Massachusetts who are experiencing clothing insecurity. This is where the Mitten Tree comes in.
Earlier this month, the Melrose Public Library launched its annual Mitten Tree, a donation drive for winter clothing essentials: mittens, gloves, hats and scarves to keep hands and heads warm this winter, helping to address clothing insecurity locally.
Melrose residents can join in and make a difference in the lives of families experiencing winter clothing insecurity by donating any of these items anytime now through January 3, 2024. The only criterion is that donations should be new. When January 3 rolls around, the essentials will be transported to Housing Families, a non-profit organization that delivers on its mission to uplift individuals and families and their children experiencing insecurity in housing, food, clothing and more.
While this isn’t the first time the Melrose Public Library has launched its Mitten Tree initiative, donations of winter essentials in adult and children’s sizes are urgently needed and appreciated by the Library staff. Donated items, which should be new, can be brought to the Melrose Public Library, in its interim location at the Beebe School, 263 W Foster St, during the following hours: Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m.
Questions about the Mitten Tree can be directed to the Library staff available by phone number at 781-665-2313.
