Independent Health donates clothing

About 1,300 pounds of winter clothing items and $2,500 were collected during the Community Assist Winter Clothing Drive to benefit the Buffalo City Mission.

Community Assist is a community-based initiative, with the Independent Health Foundation and the Buffalo Sabres, to assist those in need in this community. RedShirt volunteers collected clothing items and cash donations at four home Sabres' games in December, all local Dick's Sporting Goods locations and at Independent Health.

"The results of this Winter Clothing Drive prove the community cares about the health and well-being of those in need," said Dr. Michael W. Cropp, president and chief executive officer of Independent Health. "We're grateful for the community's continued generosity and look forward to the next Community Assist initiative that will benefit the Food Bank of Western New York."

Cropp was referring to the initiative that takes place in February. RedShirt volunteers will collect nonperishable food items at Sabres' home games on Feb. 20, 23, 25 and 27. Items also will be collected at all Dick's Sporting Goods locations from Feb. 18 to 29.

Tom Heine, president and chief executive officer of the Food Bank of Western New York, said the organization is pleased to team up with Independent Health and the Buffalo Sabres for the fund drive.

"Historically, this is a period of time when our donations are low and the demand is high," he said. "We look forward to another great drive."