The forecast for this winter is a colder and possibly snowier season than in recent years. Winters like this are especially difficult for those less fortunate in the community.
Last winter during one of the coldest days of the year, a city transit driver began tying scarfs and mittens on trees and poles at the Downtown Center for those who may have been caught out in the cold. “She began a one-woman effort and brought along other kind folks from our community who knitted scarves, mittens, and hats to aid in her efforts. She had heard about something similar in other cities and thought it was a great idea,” said Terrie Talbert, Director of Community Relations for the city. “This year staff discovered after some research that this is a rather well-known project in other cities through-out the nation, including the nearby cities of Wilmington, NC and Kingsport, TN. We would like to make this a tradition in our downtown, too,” continued Talbert. The initiative will begin on Thursday, December 3 and will continue through the end of February.
The initiative is being called “SPREAD THE GLOVE.”
Donations of any new or gently used gloves, hats, and scarves may be brought to the lobby in Bristol Tennessee’s City Hall, or any of the city Fire Stations. Staff will collect the items and attach a note letting everyone know the items are not lost, but are there for the taking if someone should find themselves out in the cold and in need of something warm. City staff will be responsible for placing the items in the downtown area. “We are so excited to partner with a number of high school sports teams and clubs along with WXBQ radio,” Talbert said. “Winters can be long. It will take a true community effort for the initiative to be successful.”
For more information on the program contact Terrie Talbert at [email protected] or call 423-989-5500 Ext. 2055.
