Snug Hugs For Kids Winter Clothing Drive Kicks Off In St. Charles

ST. CHARLES, IL — The 28th annual Snug Hugs for Kids winter clothing drive began on Oct. 29 and ends on Dec. 11. New or like-new winter items for newborn to 18 year old children can be dropped off at the local Merlin 200,000 Miles Shop.

Clothing items that are most needed include:

• coats and boots
• hats and scarves
• mittens and gloves
• sweaters and socks
• full size blankets or afghans

Merlin Shops has also launched a Red Mitten fundraising campaign to further support the mission of Children’s Home & Aid, Merlin’s Charity partner. For a $1 donation you can help by writing your name on a Red Mitten that will be on display during the campaign at the sponsoring Merlin Shop. All funds collected will be donated to Children’s Home & Aid, a leading child and family service agency that serves more than 40,000 children and families each year.

“Many families struggle to provide the necessary outerwear for their children that allow them to attend school or play outside," said Merlin 200,000 Miles Director of Marketing Penny McDowell in a media release. "Children’s Home & Aid will distribute all clothing donations to the families that truly need them and fund programs that positively impact children’s lives."

On Dec. 12, Merlin franchisees, corporate staff and vendor partners will deliver all the donations to strategically located Children’s Home + Aid family centers. Over 20 Merlin vans and vendor trucks will form a caravan to deliver an anticipated 9+ tons of clothing.

Image: Laurie Williams, wife of Merlin Franchisee Tim Willams helps with the coat distribution on delivery day at a Children's Home & Aid Family Center. Courtesy of Merlin Shops.