Over two weeks from October 23rd to November 3rd, Rotary teams across Teesside came together for the first time to offer less privileged members of society protection for the oncoming winter chill. Middlesbrough Erimus has, for four years, piloted the initiative in which people donate unwanted warm coats via special collection bins. These are then recycled to those whose need is greater.
This year they were joined by Rotary groups from Stockton, Teesside West, Guisborough and Great Ayton, Stokesley, Redcar and Saltburn . In total 99 Wrap Up bins were hosted by shops, businesses, gyms, churches and colleges across the region
Once again warm hearted Teessiders generously ensured their surplus winter wear gained a second life and over fifty local charities are in the process of distributing coats of all sizes to new homes. In a record result more than 5,000 items of warm clothing have been recycled.
Expressing thanks to donors, collection points and local Councils who have supported the annual event Erimus Lead Dave Whittaker said “Whilst we can set this programme in place, it is local people who enable its success, we are always delighted by the generosity shown by so many and we offer our thanks and good wishes to everyone who has donated or assisted - You have made a difference to the life of someone you will never know .
Terry Bolton who coordinated the local Rotary initiative expressed a common view “ Wrap Up warms people twice, first its the hearts of the donors for their good deed and then the arms and bodies of those who gain a Warmer Winter ”.
President of Erimus Rotary Joe Guerin confirmed that Wrap Up might be ‘A Wrap’ for 2025 but the boxes have been stored away safely and Teesside can expect
to see their return as the nights get longer in 2026!
