Imagine trying to stave off the cold during the long winter months without a blanket, a jacket or gloves. This is an uncomfortable reality for many British Columbians. The real estate industry and the public have once again answered the call to lend a helping hand. The 21st annual REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive took place this year from November 16 to 23, 2015, and gathered enough blankets, sleeping bags, jackets, and warm clothing to assist approximately 19,000 people.
The blanket drive requires the volunteer efforts of thousands of REALTORS® throughout Greater Vancouver, the Fraser Valley and Chilliwack. Congratulations to everyone who contributed and gave of their time to coordinate donations. One of them is Baljit Singh Sandhu at Sutton Group – West Coast Realty in Surrey. He has participated for years and sees firsthand the positive outcomes of this unique project.
“As I volunteer in Surrey Memorial Hospital, I know in the winter months there are a considerable number of homeless patients coming to emergency only because of cold,” says Baljit. “They don’t have proper winter clothing but because of the REALTORS Care® Blanket Drive, these patients, who are really in need, can often go home with a warm jacket. This allows hospital staff can concentrate on much more serious patient issues. They appreciate and look forward to the annual blanket drive donations.”
Baljit was the key organizer at Sutton Group – West Coast Realty in Surrey along with the receptionist, Ashley Ram. She notes that donations steadily began to build during the week and more arrived over the weekend. When Ashley arrived on Monday morning, the boardroom was piled high with donations! Their team collected 101 bags this year compared to 95 bags in 2014. (The bags are supplied and are a large size.)
“In 2015, 70 percent of donations were brand new such as 20 blankets, 24 jackets, 20 pillows and 36 packages of socks,” says Baljit. “We gave brand new blankets, pillows and socks to Hyland House in Surrey, which has an arrangement for homeless people to stay at night time in winter months.”
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
