The Kenora community is getting into the holiday spirit by helping support many unhoused, vulnerable and in-need individuals this Christmas.
Ogimaawabiitong (Kenora Chiefs Advisory) and the Kenora Makwa Patrol are sending a huge Miigwetch to the community for their fantastic response to our Winter Blanket Drive during the Kenora Kinsmen Parade on November 25.
While handing out candy to youth along the parade route, frontline members of the Kenora Makwa Patrol and their ‘Paw Patrol’ van accepted donations of new, or gently-used blankets and yoga mats for those in need this winter.
Acting Manager with the Kenora Makwa Patrol, Jennifer Lebel, says the community’s support is much-needed at this time of the year as colder weather continues to hit the area.
“The Makwa Patrol Staff had a great time getting together and decorating ahead of time for the parade,” explains Lebel.
“We received over 30 blankets and some yoga mats. For our first time going in the Kenora Kinsmen Christmas Parade, I’m really happy with the amount we received! The blankets and mats will help get us through the winter in being able to provide some warmth and comfort to our vulnerable population in Kenora,” she adds.
Donations to the Kenora Makwa Patrol can be arranged any time by calling 807-464-7233, with pick-up available in city limits. The most needed items at this time of the year include warm clothes, socks, shoes, non-perishable food items, and blankets.
Since 2020, the Kenora Makwa Patrol has worked to assist those in need in the Kenora area, including those most vulnerable and in need of help, access community services. The Kenora Makwa Patrol, led by KCA, the Kenora District Services Board, Treaty #3 Police Service, and the OPP, works with various partners as a community-based solution to crime prevention.
