DANIELLE GAITHER
Temperatures have been up and down during the winter season in Denton, but we’re likely to see several more days and nights of below-freezing temperatures before spring arrives.
The bad news is that not everyone in Denton has a coat to protect themselves adequately from the cold weather. According to the most recent available data from the Denton County Homeless Coalition, Denton County has over 200 homeless people, and about 15% of them are children. Nearly 20% of our local homeless population are considered chronically homeless according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s definition. According to the latest US Census Bureau data, a further 60,000+ Denton County residents live below the federal poverty line and therefore might not be able to afford appropriate winter clothing.
The good news is that the people at Friends With Benefits are trying to change that. For those who might not be familiar with FWB, it’s a local nonprofit organization that works to raise awareness and funds for local charities. One campaign that FWB has been running for the last few years is Keep Denton Warm where they collect coats, socks, hats, scarves, and other warm clothing items for Dentonites who can’t afford to buy them. This season’s campaign started in September with a movie night on the square.
If you missed that event, you’ve got another chance coming up to help the less fortunate in our community. The event is called Waffles, Wassail & Warmth and will be happening Sunday, January 14, at Andy’s Bar. In exchange for a warm clothing donation or financial contribution, you can enjoy some waffles and wassail for your Sunday brunch. There will also be entertainment with the folksy sounds of Denton’s own Boxcar Bandits (seriously, you should check them out anyway because they’re awesome).
Let’s be honest – you were going to sleep in and have a lazy brunch this Sunday anyway. Why not spend that time helping the less fortunate in our community while you enjoy your food, drink, and live music? All you need is a donation of cash or winter clothing, and Friends With Benefits, Andy’s Bar, and Boxcar Bandits will take care of the rest!
Waffles, Wassail & Warmth happens Sunday, January 14, 2018 from 11 AM to 2 PM at Andy’s Bar, 122 N. Locust St. Proceeds benefit Keep Denton Warm and Friends With Benefits.
