I was prepared when 17 of the Mansion residents at my weekly story reading session held up their hands when I asked if anyone needed sweaters or warm shirts for the Fall.

Even with climate change, it can get frosty here in September and October, especially for the elderly. It’s already getting cool at night.

I’ve been saving up for this for the last few months, putting some contributions aside, as I said I would, for a clothing fund. This week I called several of my favorite Thrift Shops, part of my emergency clothing network for the Mansion residents.

I’m learning to get ahead of things, and it was clear the residents needed some Fall clothes.

I don’t buy personal items at thrift shops – personal hygiene for men and women and toiletries like deodorants – those are all bought new. But I’ve found several thrift and consignment stores that have fine clothes in excellent condition, all cleaned professionally.

They are my network.

I called them two weeks ago and said I needed sweaters, flannel shirts, scarves, and some warm hats. Today I made my rounds – they know me well know and put things aside for me – and bought more than $200 worth of warm sweaters, and heavier shirts for women and men.

Monday, Julie, the Activities Director, is announcing that I’ll bring all of these clothes to the Activity Room when I come to my weekly story reading session.

We’ll make sure everyone who wants and needs some warmer clothes gets one.  We’ll make sure to go knock on doors and offer warm clothes so that everyone gets what they need.

I remember how cold everybody got last October and November when the temperatures dropped.

I have enough money for this project and don’t need additional funds. Thanks as always for your support, this is a big deal at the Mansion.