Way to Grow knows winter changes the world outside and shakes up families’ daily routines, too. When the cold arrives, parents start thinking about coats that fit, boots that stay dry, and warm places for children to rest, play, and read. This list of winter essentials stacks up quickly. Our Neighbors Who Care Winter Drive helps families stay warm, steady, and supported all season long.
This Black Friday, skip the crowds and shop with purpose. Every item on our Winter Drive Wishlist goes directly to Twin Cities families who need it most.
Why This Drive Matters
Minnesota winters are beautiful, and they are also tough. Families working hard to meet basic needs feel the cold first. A coat that no longer zips, mittens lost on the bus, a child who outgrew last year’s boots overnight, a home that needs one more blanket. These are the moments our Family Educators see every week during winter months.
They visit families from pregnancy through third grade, speaking language to language and building trust one conversation at a time. Because of these relationships, parents tell us what they need. And when our community responds, families feel seen. They stay focused on school, work, and home life because they have what helps them through the coldest stretch of the year.
The American Red Cross notes that strong winter supplies help keep families safe. Way to Grow sees this in real time. A warm coat can change how a walk to school feels. A well-supplied bathroom has the chance to change a nightly bath routine. A cozy blanket can make reading at bedtime all the more fun and joyful.
What We Collect
Winter Clothing (all sizes, especially children’s)
• Coats and jackets
• Hats, gloves, and mittens
• Scarves and warm socks
• Snow pants and boots
Family Needs
• Children’s books (ages birth to eight)
• Gift cards for groceries or other essentials
Home Essentials
• Blankets and throws
• Space heaters (new only)
• Cleaning supplies
• Toilet paper and paper towels
Hygiene Items
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap and body wash
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Menstrual hygiene products
• Diapers and wipes (all sizes)
How to Give
Shop the Wishlist:
You can shop our Amazon wishlist and ship items directly to Way to Grow. In the meantime, our Family Educators get them to parents who need them most.
Ship or Drop Off:
New items from the wishlist can be shipped directly to Way to Grow, or you can drop them off during regular office hours: Monday–Thursday from 9:00am–5:00pm, Friday from 9:00am–4:00pm. If you dropping off, please call ahead (612.874.4740)!
Way to Grow
201 Irving Ave. N, Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55405
Host a Drive:
Workplaces, schools, community groups, and individuals can all host their own winter drive! We offer personalized support to those wanting to collect on our behalf, so please reach out if you’re interested in this drive or in hosting a future one.
Contact us at wtg@mplswaytogrow.org to coordinate!
Make a Financial Gift:
If shopping isn’t possible, a gift helps us purchase specific items families request. Just write “Winter Drive” in the notes when giving online!
Join Us in Building a Warmer Community
Last winter, community donations reached dozens of Way to Grow families. Children headed to school warm. Parents stocked shelves with hygiene items. Homes felt safer, calmer, and ready for the season. These small actions of support create steady change. When families have what they need, they meet the cold season with confidence.
Winter is coming, and families count on Neighbors Who Care. Whether you give a warm coat or rally your whole workplace, you help build a Twin Cities where every family can move through the season with dignity and warmth.
