If you haven't donated to Rotary's Socks and Bottoms campaign, your chance to do so is Saturday, and the top ask from 32 local charities is socks and underwear.
The Rotary Clubs of Windsor and Essex County are holding a collection event on Saturday at the Caboto Club, on Tecumseh Road East, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Community surveys have shed light on the needs of local organizations, which report a 40 per cent jump in demand for basic items.
"We are calling on the community to be part of the solution," said Rotarian Joan Pocock. "While we're grateful for the generosity of past campaigns, we're focusing on a few critical items this year, especially underwear."
Vulnerable populations helped by the campaign include those staying in shelters, couch-surfing, or living in unsafe, unstable conditions. Others include refugees, seniors on fixed incomes, and those struggling with mental health and addiction.
Some of the groups that will benefit from this year's campaign include the Welcome Centre Shelter for Women and Families, The Hub, The Soup Shack, Street Help, Salvation Army Residence, the Windsor Youth Centre, Matthew House and the Milo Pregnancy Centre.
Other items needed include diapers, hats, mitts, and toilet paper.
Once collected, the donations will be distributed throughout the region for immediate delivery to families and individuals who need them.
This year's campaign started on October 25.
