Self-Storage Operators Support Charities to Keep People Warm This Winter

Self-storage operators around the world have launched charity drives to collect coats and blankets for various organizations as the weather turns cold. Here’s a summary of how they’re giving back to their communities so far in fall 2016.

Guardian Self Storage, which operates facilities in Dutchess, Orange and Ulster, N.Y., counties, is hosting its 22nd annual Susan DeKeukelaere Memorial Coat Drive in partnership with Dutchess Outreach, a local nonprofit that provides resources and advocacy for those in need. Garments may be dropped off through the end of the month at any of Guardian’s 13 facilities, as well as Rhinebeck Bank branches. Once sorted, the coats will be handed out at distribution locations.

Personal Mini Storage has been collecting coats and blankets this month to benefit the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. The company is accepting clean blankets, coats and jackets in gently used condition for children and adults. Items may be dropped off at either of the company’s Apopka, Fla., facilities at 1365 E. Semoran Blvd. or 777 Piedmont Wekiwa Road. The Coalition operates two campuses in downtown Orlando.

U.K. self-storage operator Safestore Holdings PLC is supporting Human Appeal, a British international development and relief charity, by collecting coats next month at its nine locations in Manchester, England. The campaign, Wrap Up Manchester, is based on Hands on London, a successful program now in its sixth year. Coats will be collected Nov. 7 through 18. Items will then be distributed to organizations for the elderly, homeless shelters, refugee centers and other charities.

Wilkes-Barre Self Storage in Wilkes-Barre, Pa., is among several businesses participating in Madi’s Annual Coat & Blanket Drive. Blankets, coats, sweaters, sweatshirts and other items designed to keep people warm may be dropped off through the end of the month. Collected items will be taken to Ruth’s Place women’s shelter and St. Vincent de Paul soup kitchen for distribution. The drive was started six years ago by 7-year-old Madison Kick, who donated some of her clothing and toys and asked others to participate.

Founded 25 years ago, N.Y.-based Guardian Self Storage has 13 facilities in the Hudson Valley.

Founded in 1982 by brothers Stan and Ron Shader, Personal Mini Storage has remained a family-owned and -operated business for more than 30 years. It operates 36 locations in Florida.

Safestore operates 131 self-storage facilities, including 95 facilities it owns in the United Kingdom and 24 in France. Its wholly owned properties comprise more than 5 million square feet of storage space, while its entire portfolio serves approximately 49,000 customers.