Helping the vulnerable in North Bay

Several initiatives in North Bay are underway to help the city's vulnerable population.

From the fire department to organizations teaming up to make sure people are fed and warm this winter.

For example, garbage bags at the Salvation Army are filled to the brim of coats of all sizes.

"I think there is always a need,” said Amanda Smith of Low Income Involvement People of Nipissing.

“Every year cost of living goes up a little more. That's what we're here for."

Operation Warmth sees Smith’s group, the Salvation Army and Rebuilt Resources team up to collect gently used coats and donate them to those in need.

"So we want to get as many coats as we can to get them back on the community so no one goes cold this winter," Smith said.

Operation Warmth also collects other winter apparel like hats, gloves and boots. The organizations ask for all coats to be clean and have working zippers.

Meanwhile at grocery stores, firefighters are collecting non-perishable food items and hygiene products.

"Definitely we had a good showing at Independent yesterday and we're starting to do the same thing today at Sobey's," said North Bay fire information officer Chris Nichol.

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It's part of its Fill a Fire Truck campaign where all the goods will be dropped off at the North Bay Food Bank.

"There is a need and donations are at a low and this is from what I hear and everyone is tight on money,” Nichol said.

“North Bay had been good always."