Local Business lends a helping hand at homeless shelter

Posted: Jan 25, 2010 10:40 PM by Jeff Womack
Updated: Jan 25, 2010 10:40 PM

The Montana Rescue Mission teamed up with Mattress Land and has been collecting money and items like hats and gloves since October. Monday afternoon children of all ages were able to pick up their new winter gear.

Gary Drake, the Montana Rescue Mission Director, said, "It really was a statement by the community. When we put together a demonstrated need the community will come forth to meet that need."

Craig Barthel, the owner of Mattress Land, said, "When you see these kids, that don't have a pair of gloves, putting a pair of gloves on brand new they get to pick out of a stack. That is pretty special, the big smiles. It's a lot of fun."

In all 2,500 items were collected as well $5,000 in cash donations.

As a part of the fundraiser Mattress Land matched every donation made. Recently an anonymous donor added an extra $1,000 to the cause.

Topics: Billings Montana Rescue Mission Mattress Land Donations Gloves