A picture of distribution items set up at the IRC in NY office in different stations.
Holiday Drive event was hosted in person!
Photo: IRC in NY

Having to resettle or navigate a significant wave of economic insecurity, many families are in need of warmer coats and winter accessories. Every year, the IRC in NY hosts a Drive to support refugee and immigrant families preparing for the winter season. This year’s Holiday Drive was met with excitement and joy.

With the Holiday Drive hosted in-person, it offered the opportunity for families to fully experience each section. Thanks to the IRC in NY’s numerous partners and donors, the IRC in NY was able to collect coats, winter accessories, clothing, and hygiene essentials. There was a sense of delight and joy, that echoed through the IRC in the NY office, both from the clients and NY staff. At the drive, clients were able to bring their family members to comfortably try on a new pair of sneakers or coat. Morning and afternoon session were made available within the 6-day period (December 8-December 13), to accommodate for work and school schedules. 

A picture of distribution items set up at the IRC in NY office in different stations.
Clothes and Coats were displayed at the drive. Many clients tried on coats to find the perfect one!
Photo: IRC in NY
A picture of distribution items set up at the IRC in NY office in different stations.
Shoe boutique: Shoes were displayed at the drive, ready for clients to try them on
Photo: IRC in NY

A very special gift was a featured favourite, toys! Children were especially excited to choose from a wide selection of new toys (for ages 0-12) and gift cards for teenagers. Children were running around the toy lobby, sifting through gift boxes for their new favourite toy. There were sensory games for toddlers, arts& crafts, science kits, board games, books, and many more games!

A picture of distribution items set up at the IRC in NY office in different stations.
Gifts for children were a favourite at the event!
Photo: IRC in NY

This year, new donors also reached out to make in-kind donations and some were able to see the Holiday Drive set up in motion, including festive décor and bright lights. The Holiday drive served around 440 adults and children! The IRC in NY is thrilled that families are able to comfortably care for their families.