FARIBAULT, Minn. — As Minnesotans bundle up this winter, Faribault Mill is helping the homeless stay warm across the country. Its "Spread the Warmth" campaign has delivered wool blankets to 24 different shelters across the country.
"While you think of a blanket as something simple, it's also very important," Paul Mooty said.
Mooty helped resurrect the historic mill in 2011. The mill first opened 158 years ago. His son Michael, and daughter Alexandra have joined the family business.
One thing has stayed consistent, a passion for creating high-quality wool products and a love for Minnesotans. They've combined the two with their Spread the Warmth campaign.
"We have been incredibly pleased and honestly surprised by the success in the first year," CEO Ross Widmoyer said.
12,000 blankets are committed to be delivered to shelters in 18 cities across the U.S., including Youth Link in Minneapolis.
"We really have been trending upward," Youth Link spokesperson Carley Noyce said when talking about the demand growing. "This year, we expect to see about 2,200 youth."
Youth Link helps people ages 16 to 24 experiencing homelessness. Noyce says the Faribault Mill blankets are given at their drop-in center, and during outreach at encampments. The blankets help serve as a gateway to help build a connection with those in need.
"The blankets we get are very good quality and actually keep people warm with waterproof qualities," Noyce said.
If you would like to buy a blanket to help donate one, click here.
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