Downtown Kelowna in partnership with the Business Improvement Areas of British Columbia (BIABC) and Fortis BC present “Turn Down the Heat Week.”
From November 4-10, 2017 people can donate their gently used sweaters, hats or gloves/mitts or new socks to be used by the Kelowna Gospel Mission. Every item of warm clothes collected will stay in Kelowna.
There are five easy drop off locations across Downtown Kelowna, they are:
- Gospel Mission (251 Leon Avenue)
- Roy’s Shoes (1627 Ellis Street)
- Mavazi Apparel (565 Bernard Avenue)
- Picture Perfect (543 Lawrence Avenue)
- Downtown Kelowna Association (287 Bernard Avenue)
In addition to the warm clothing donation, businesses are encouraged “turn down the heat” in their stores and conserve energy, while wearing their favourite sweaters.
“We are thrilled that BIABC is working alongside FortisBC on this initiative again. Being energy efficient is important to our members, our community and the environment. Together it’s the little things, like turning down the thermostat, that can make a huge difference,” says BIABC president Kendra Johnston. “We’re fortunate to have FortisBC support this partnership. They are as committed to global stewardship as we are. When we all work together, our efforts make a significant impact for change.” In 2016, 400 businesses representing 14 BIAs collected more than 2,500 sweaters and warm pieces of clothing to donate to families in need.
“Being aware of energy use and using it efficiently is good for business. It can reduce costs and preserve resources,” said Danielle Wensink, FortisBC’s director, conservation and energy management. “Turn Down the Heat Week highlights the small changes businesses and residents can make that together have a big impact, all while supporting worthwhile community causes. It’s a win-win for everyone and we’re proud to be a part of it.”
Downtown Kelowna joins 17 other BIAs around the province to take part in this week long campaign. In the first four years the campaign has collected more than 10,000 sweaters, twice the original campaign goal, and those were donated to local charities in need. Businesses championed together to turn their thermostats down and help encourage their customers to do the same at home.
Watch all the activity unfold at:
#turndowntheheatweek, @businessareasBC
Business Improvement Areas across BC challenge you to turn down the heat and donate!
