Trending
A difficult year for Marshalltown has left many people in need. With a pandemic and derecho impacting the city, the time for giving around the holidays is possibly more important than ever.
That's the hope of Edward Jones' three Marshalltown locations as they conduct their annual Mitten Drive this December.
According to Dena Ryner, the branch office Administrator for Nathan Blayer at the West High Street location, the event has been held every year since 2011, making it a staple in the community for nearly a full decade.
"We don't have a goal, we just hope to have some things to donate," Ryner said. "We usually do very well. Gotta get the word out there."
The Mitten Drive accepts all winter clothing, Ryner said -- everything from mittens to snow pants, coats, hats, snowshoes and everything in between -- and normally they would be dropped off by going into any one of the three Edward Jones locations in town. But due to COVID-19 concerns, there are instead three drop-off boxes at the locations. Those who wish to drop off their donations inside still can, but it's a small change in a bid to encourage as many people as possible to safely contribute, she added.
The Mitten Drive is always important, Ryner said, but this year it's been amplified in meaning.
"I think even more important," she said. "Because of the situation we're in, a lot of people are out of work. So, anything to help."
The donations come from all over town, but there is a small group of people who knit and provide handmade hats, mittens and gloves as well, Ryner said.
Donations can be made through Dec. 22 at the Edward Jones locations at:
• 507 W. High St.
• 20 S. First Ave.
• 16 E. Main St.
Business hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
After Dec. 22, the donations and winter gear collected will be taken to The Caring Center, Inc., 132 W. Main St., where people who are in need can receive the donated clothing items for free. Due to COVID-19 The Caring Center, Inc., is open by appointment only.
Contact Noah Rohlfing at nrohlfing@timesrepublican.com.