On Tuesday, February 4, representatives from Americold, Nor’east Cleaners and the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce stopped by Action Inc.’s Emergency Shelter to drop off a consignment of heavy-duty winter coats and overalls. The warm weather gear, which had been lightly used by staff at Americold’s refrigerated warehouse units in Gloucester, was cleaned by Nor’east Cleaners, and the donation was coordinated by the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce’s Ken Riehl.
Designed to keep the wearer comfortable in temperatures as low as -15°F, the coats will be distributed to guests at Action Inc.’s Emergency Shelter, located at 370 Main St. in Gloucester. The Shelter serves around 300 individuals each year, providing guests with a safe and warm place to stay, food and access to laundry and hygiene facilities. In addition, shelter guests receive healthcare screenings, vaccinations, access to mental health counseling and intensive case management support to help guests achieve stability and move on to permanent housing.
“For people experiencing homelessness in our community, the winter can be especially hard”, explained Jen Beloff, Action Inc.’s Director of Client and Housing Services, who oversees the Shelter. “They can spend hours outside in freezing conditions, with few places to go. These are high quality, warm coats that will be greatly appreciated by our guests, and will keep them safe and warm this winter.”
“How inspiring and magical is the tough dedicated work and warm care Action Inc. brings to Cape Ann,” said Art Buckland of Nor’east Cleaners, “and how humbling to be included in such a great partnership as Americold and Action Inc. working together with the great leadership of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.”
According to Donald Turcotte, General Manager of Americold’s Gloucester operation, “Americold is excited to partner with the community we live in. We look forward to the continued relationship.”
Both Americold and Nor’east Cleaners have a history of being deeply engaged in the community and supportive of Action Inc.’s work. “Nor’east has been one of the longest-serving, most active supporters of Project Uplift, our annual holiday toy drive”, explained Joe McEvoy, Director of Planning and Development at Action Inc., “and last summer, Americold’s staff donated dozens of backpacks filled with clothes, shoes, toiletries and other essentials to our shelter guests. This is another example of a caring community in action, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their support!”
Ken Riehl, CEO of the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, who coordinated the donation, added, “It was a pleasure helping to connect Americold and Nor’East Cleaners on this wonderful donation in support of Action’s amazing work with our community in need”.
