Minneapolis (Jan. 19, 2024) – The second annual Meet Minneapolis Warm Winter Clothing Drive wrapped up today as hundreds of items of new, warm clothes were donated to Hennepin Healthcare for distribution to patients in need. Since late November, Meet Minneapolis, its tourism and hospitality partner businesses, and individuals came together to gather more than $10,000 worth of clothing items. These new clothing items will assist Hennepin Healthcare in its mission to discharge patients with dignity.

"We believe in the power of compassion and collective action,” said Melvin Tennant, Meet Minneapolis President and CEO. “The success of our Warm Winter Clothing Drive is a testament to the generosity of our tourism and hospitality community and the positive change we can create together. We thank all those who donated to support Hennepin Healthcare patients in their time of need.”

From Nov. 27, 2023 to Jan. 15, 2024, Meet Minneapolis collected new, warm clothes to be donated to Hennepin Healthcare. Many patients have financial challenges after an accident or clothing that has been cut and removed to access wounds. And these same patients may not have the financial resources to purchase replacement clothing. Others may not have adequate clothing for the cold weather. Meet Minneapolis staff, board members and partner businesses contributed to the warm clothing drive, donating new coats, boots, pants, tops, mittens, scarves, socks and more.

“When our community partners and friends began collecting these wonderful donations, they may not have realized what an impact they were making – not only for our patients who will be warmed by the gifts, but also to those who are waiting to be admitted for care,” explained Hennepin Healthcare CEO Jennifer DeCubellis. “Hospitals are so busy these days, and patients need to go home as soon as they are ready. Having seasonally appropriate clothing expedites this process in many ways – even beyond our doors. It’s a win-win for everyone, and we thank you so much for your thoughtfulness.”

“I am truly heartened by the generosity displayed by our community,” said Minneapolis City Council Member Jamal Osman. “The outpouring of generosity from businesses and individuals has not only provided warmth to those in need but has also showcased that kindness and collective action can truly transform lives in our city.”

“As a proud member of the Minneapolis community, I am deeply moved by the success of the Meet Minneapolis Winter Clothing Drive,” stated Robert Lilligren, Meet Minneapolis Board Chair and Native American Community Development Institute CEO. “The collective effort of the businesses and individuals in supporting this drive reflects the true spirit of hospitality – a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others."

Several Meet Minneapolis partners were significant contributors to the Warm Winter Clothing Drive. They include Hyatt Regency Minneapolis; Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, The Depot; W Minneapolis – The Foshay; Minneapolis Marriott City Center; Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District; the Minnesota Vikings; and the Minneapolis Downtown Council.

For photos and videos from the Warm Winter Clothing Drive, go here.

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ABOUT MEET MINNEAPOLIS
Meet Minneapolis is a private, not-for-profit, member-based association. It actively promotes and sells the Minneapolis area as a destination for conventions and meetings, works to maximize the visitor experience and markets the city as a desirable tourist destination to maximize the economic and social benefit to the greater Minneapolis area. Meet Minneapolis is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) of Destinations International.

ABOUT HENNEPIN HEALTHCARE
Hennepin Healthcare is an integrated system of care that includes HCMC, a nationally recognized Level I Adult Trauma Center and Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and acute care hospital, as well as a clinic system with primary care clinics located in Minneapolis and across Hennepin County. It is operated by Hennepin Healthcare System, Inc., a subsidiary corporation of Hennepin County. Learn more about Hennepin Healthcare’s commitment to health equity at hennepinhealthcare.org/health-equity.

MEET MINNEAPOLIS MEDIA CONTACTS
Kevin Kurtt, PR & Communications Manager, (o) 612-767-8118, (c) 952-288-9319, kevink@minneapolis.org
Kathy McCarthy, Senior PR & Communications Director, (o) 612-767-8048, (c) 612-508-9720, kathym@minneapolis.org

HENNEPIN HEALTHCARE MEDIA CONTACT
Christine Hill, Media Relations Manager, (o) 612-873-5719, (c) 612-919-8711, media@hcmed.org