MINNEAPOLIS — Staying warm during Minnesota's brutal winters can be hard and for the state's estimated 8,000 unhoused community members, it's even harder.
"I'm ready to get out of this cold," said unhoused Minneapolis resident Felicia Chance.
Chance is among some 3,000 people expected at Coated in Love's "3000 Acts of Kindness Day" at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
"It's a one-stop shop," said unhoused disabled military veteran James Lewis. "You get full gear but the resources are probably the main aspect with agencies we wouldn't know provided such resources."
People received lunch from Chick-fil-a, winter essentials like coats and mittens and haircuts from local cosmetologists and barbers.
There were also several social service agencies that provided access to housing, mental health and addiction services.
Chance says through the event, she is looking forward to getting her own place.
"It's amazing here. I have never been to an event like this before. There are so many resources and full gear to keep you warm," said Chance.
That response is exactly what Coated in Love Founder Danielle Igbanugo wants to hear.
"This community has been so gracious and so kind and so thankful. I have had so many 'Thank you's' and 'God bless you's'," said Igbanugo. "There's a lot of love here."
This is the second year the Plymouth-based non-profit has hosted the event. One Igbanugo says is filled with hope and dignity.
"This is humanity. We are all humans and we all need the same basic things," said Igbanugo.
Everything at the event was donated by sponsors or vendors including Red Wing Shoes, Samaritan's Feet and more.
"It's been amazing to watch. To see all of these families are just benefiting from all of the services and items that are being donated and given," said event volunteer Dominique Williams.
With an estimated 3,000 people in attendance, which is over three times as many as last year, Igbanugo says she is already looking forward to next year's event.
"I'd like to make sure there's something for everyone who comes through the door," said Igbanugo.
Coated in Love’s mission to support the unhoused community doesn't stop after today’s event. It ask for donations and long-term volunteer support all year long. You can learn more about how to donate and volunteer on their website.
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