The Tree That Needs Your Help to Grow: The Mitten Tree

For about 33% of families in Massachusetts, there isn’t always room in the budget for clothing, according to an impact report by MA nonprofit Cradles to Crayons. For these families, winter clothing essentials — coats, hats, gloves, mittens, and scarves — are often in competition with other needs, such as food, rent, and utilities.

Believing everyone deserves to feel warm and safe, the Melrose Public Library has decided to do something to help the 1 in 3 children and adults in Massachusetts who are experiencing clothing insecurity.

This is where the Mitten Tree comes in.

Earlier this month, the Melrose Public Library launched its annual Mitten Tree, a donation drive for winter clothing essentials — mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves — to keep hands and heads warm this winter, helping to address clothing insecurity locally.

Melrose residents can join in and make a difference in the lives of families locally experiencing winter clothing insecurity by donating any of these items anytime now through January 3, 2024. The only criterion is that donations should be new.

When January 3 rolls around, the essentials will be transported to Housing Families, a non-profit organization that delivers on its mission to uplift individuals and families and their children experiencing insecurity in housing, food, clothing, and more.

While this isn’t the first time the Melrose Public Library has launched its Mitten Tree initiative, donations of winter essentials in adult and children’s sizes are urgently needed and appreciated by the Library staff.

Donated items, which should be new, can be brought to the Melrose Public Library, in its interim location at the Beebe School, 263 W Foster St, during the following hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday & Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 2-5 PM

Questions about the Mitten Tree can be directed to the Library staff available by phone number (781) 665-2313.