JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Dozens of people in need will receive an early Christmas gift on Wednesday morning — a layer of warmth for the cold days.
It’s all part of a tradition that takes place every year for the Mister Rogers Neighborhood Sweater Drive.
For the men and women who sleep on the streets or rely on shelters like Clara White Mission, the cold isn’t just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous.
And that’s why what’s happening on Wednesday matters so much.
People experiencing homelessness or just anyone in need were set to receive the coats and blankets they desperately need to stay warm and stay safe.
This year, more than 10,000 sweaters, jackets, and blankets are being delivered to both Clara White Mission and City Rescue Mission.
That’s even more than last year, when volunteers handed out over 9,000 items — and staff said the need has only grown as temperatures dip earlier and faster this season.
These donations come from all across Northeast Florida, from kids dropping off their outgrown coats to retirees knitting blankets by hand. Later in the morning, WJCT Public Media and partners will roll in with trucks full of those items.
Last year, we spoke with WJCT’s President and CEO David McGowan.
“So much of what we do at WCT public media is thinking about long-term problems, big problems, figuring out how to solve them. It’s great to have an opportunity to provide a direct need,” McGowan said.
Sweater drive details
Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Stop #1: Clara White Mission
613 West Ashley Street
Stop #2: City Rescue Mission
426 McDuff Avenue
It’s not too late to donate — WJCT is still accepting items at its studios.