Uxbridge Warm Hearts organizers taking a break this fall
Lisha Van Nieuwenhove
An annual fall charity event recently announced that it is taking a hiatus this year.
Caitlin and Ian Van Den Hurk, the couple that runs Uxbridge Warm Hearts, posted on social media on Monday that they will not be hosting the charity event this year. Uxbridge Warm Hearts collects gently used winter clothing and accessories, has them washed by a local laundromat, and then holds a one-day sale, usually in October, offering the donated goods at greatly reduced prices.
“(The decision has) been something our family has been weighing heavily over the summer and into the start of September. The truth is - we are also parents, we also have full-time jobs, and all of the other demands of life. And while we have been able to squeeze ourselves the past seven Warm Hearts seasons to advertise, collect, sort and organize, setup, tear down and re-home all leftover items. We are in need of a short break.”
The post encouraged those who wish to donate winter gear that is in good condition to Chances Are, the local thrift shop run by the Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary.
The pair also requested donations to the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank, which is where proceeds from the Uxbridge Warm Hearts sale usually go.
“We plan to be back again next year,” said the Van Den Hurks in the post, “ - a little more rested!”
Uxbridge Warm Hearts anticipates returning in 2027.