With the cold weather quickly approaching, we should be reminded that the warmth and comfort that we may take for granted is not a luxury that others in our community have. We encourage you to help us make a difference in the lives of others by supporting the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and Hampton Inn’s 5th Annual Blanket Drive!
General Manager Michelle Foreman of the Hampton Inn by Hilton mentions why it is important to support this cause. “Each year we strive to make a difference in our community by supporting others, especially those in need. With the pandemic there have been extra hardships, but also some lessons learned. One of those lessons that hotels, restaurants, and all others in the hospitality industry have learned is the value of working together as a community. I am personally grateful for the support that the community has given us during these difficult times, and I am happy to be able to continue to do something to give back.”
The Blanket Drive is designed to bring awareness that there are many individuals in the community who need these resources. We want to help those in our community by setting a goal to serve the most amount of people in need.
“We are aware of how cold the winter months can be and we certainly know that the pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but we feel the need may be greater this year because of the challenges many are faced with due to the uncertain times we are living. When Michelle and I discussed continuing our blanket drive initiative to help those who need to stay warm during the cold winter months, we felt many community members would be willing to continue to support our efforts as we join forces once again, working with those in the community and our continuing partnership with the Hampton Inn by Hilton,” says Brittany Henry, Executive Director of JACVB.
The Share the Warmth Blanket Drive will continue through December 11th. To those wishing to take part in the drive, we ask you to please donate new blankets and/or cash donations that will be used to purchase new blankets. We will not be able to accept any used blankets this year due to COVID-19. All donations are greatly appreciated and will be shared between the Salvation Army and the Women’s Crisis Center.
Donations can be dropped off at the following locations:
The Hampton Inn: 24/7 drop off location
The Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau: Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For more information, contact the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 217.243.5678 or visit jacksonvilleil.org.