ABQ Times

As winter approaches and temperatures drop, the City of Albuquerque's Health, Housing, and Homelessness department has initiated the "WarmtHHH for All" donation drive. This initiative invites community members to donate new or gently used coats, jackets, beanies, and gloves until December 20th. The aim is to help unsheltered individuals stay warm during the cold months.

Donation boxes are available at all City of Albuquerque Health and Social Services Centers, Community Centers, Libraries, and Desert Sky Café in City Hall.

All collected items will be distributed through Albuquerque Fire Rescue’s (AFR) Outside Fire Response Truck. This truck not only extinguishes dangerous campfires but also offers connections to shelter through Albuquerque Community Safety (ACS). For those who choose to remain outdoors, donated clothing items are provided. To date, 363 coats, 136 pairs of insulated pants, 132 blankets, and 950 pairs of socks have been distributed.

“AFR’s Outside Fire Response truck handled over 800 small outside fire calls last month,” said Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo. “Each one of those responses not only ensures that small fires are extinguished but it’s an opportunity for outreach and connections to services. Part of that outreach is providing warm clothing and blankets to discourage dangerous fires for those that choose not to go to area shelters.”

Health, Housing, and Homelessness Director Gilbert Ramirez emphasized the importance of these donations: “While shelter, resources, and pathways to housing are the ultimate goal, we understand not everyone will accept these services right away. These crucial donations will bridge a gap in service to our unsheltered community.”

Mayor Tim Keller highlighted the spirit behind this effort: “This drive is about helping the most vulnerable in our city, and during this time of giving, we invite our community to be a part of these efforts.”

For those unable to reach a donation box location in person, scheduling a pickup or drop-off time via their website is possible. The department notes an ongoing need for men’s clothing.