Help Keep Homeless Children Warm This Winter: Conshohocken Nonprofit Launches Initiative

Conshohocken-based Cradles to Crayons is launching an initiative to keep homeless and at-risk children warm this winter.

According to a news release, the nonprofit is sponsoring its Gear Up for Winter initiative, a program aiming to provide families and children with warm winter items necessary for the approaching chilling temperatures.

This year’s Gear Up for Winter program intends to support over 19,000 children in the greater Philadelphia region in need and keep them safe and warm during this harsh season, the release states.

The organization aims to fulfill every request made for a winter coat, hat, and gloves, as well as warm layers of clothing, waterproof winter boots, and other basic essentials, according to the organization.

“Though our goal is to provide families and children in need year round, it’s no secret that the winter’s harsh temperatures result in the need for cold-weather items to spike,” said Michal Smith, executive director of Cradles to Crayons Philadelphia, in a statement. “Unfortunately, staying warm both indoors and outdoors is a struggle for thousands of children in need, so this year we are focusing on preparedness, ensuring that children have the essentials to stay safe prior to the temperatures dropping.”

Individually tailored "KidPacks" are also packed and distributed based on each child’s specific needs, providing all children with the items they require to stay healthy and engaged in their childhood.

Cradles to Crayons is asking to fill the demand for 14,000 coats, hats and gloves. The need for winter essentials has sharply increased over the years for all sizes from infant through adult medium. The organization emphasizes preparedness and is looking to the community for assistance now.

Patch file photo.