Warm soup and a fuzzy scarf can make a big difference on a cold winter day in Manitoba.

Manitobans will be encouraged to share these simple comforts with those in need during Warm and Fuzzy Days, a collection drive launched today by Manitoba Public Insurance, the Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba (IBAM) and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in support of Winnipeg Harvest and affiliated food distribution agencies.

Throughout the month of October, donations of soup and new winter hats, scarves, mitts and gloves can be dropped off at all Manitoba Public Insurance offices and participating Autopac brokers’ offices. Blue Bomber fans attending the Oct. 30 home game will also asked to bring along a donation. All items collected will be distributed by Winnipeg Harvest and affiliated agencies across the province.

Bomber offence lineman Matt Sheridan wore a warm hat and scarf to kick off Warm and Fuzzy Days at Winnipeg Harvest’s warehouse. “Manitoba winters can be tough for those struggling to make ends meet. Winnipeg harvest and its partners are endeavouring to make those hard times a little easier, so please give all you can,” Sheridan said.

“Warm and Fuzzy Days is another example of how Autopac brokers and Manitoba Public Insurance are contributing to the well-being of communities all across Manitoba,” said John Douglas, Manitoba Public Insurance’s Vice-President of Corporate Public Affairs. “Together, we’ll be collecting donations at 30 Manitoba Public Insurance locations throughout Manitoba, and at hundreds of broker offices. We’re proud to be joining forces in support of such a great cause.”

“This is the perfect time of year to find a warm spot in your hearts for giving. These simple comforts in life will have a dramatic impact on the health and well-being of adults and children touched by poverty. Insurance brokerages are perfect locations in each community to provide the collection depots necessary to assist in this rewarding and special appeal to help fellow Manitobans”, said IBAM President Tony Taronno.

“Our harsh winters can be particularly difficult time for people who are in crisis or living in poverty, struggling to keep their families warm and healthy, “said Carol Ellerbeck, Executive Coordinator of Winnipeg Harvest. “We provide emergency help to more than 300 neighbourhood food banks across Manitoba and we know this extra warmth provided by Manitoba Public Insurance staff, the Blue Bombers and caring insurance brokers will go a long way towards assisting those in need.”

Manitoba Public Insurance and IBAM volunteers will hand out fliers at the Bombers’ Oct. 16 game asking fans to bring a Warm and Fuzzy Days donation if they attend the Oct. 30 game.

Winnipeg Harvest provides emergency food to more than 36,000 Manitobans each month. Almost half are children.

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For more information, contact:
Diane Poulin
Winnipeg Harvest
(204) 982-3584

Brian Smiley
Media Relations
Manitoba Public Insurance
(204) 985-7300 or 1-888-554-9549 (toll-free in Manitoba)

Rosemary Anderson
Insurance Brokers Association of Manitoba
(204) 488-1857