Adam Prudhomme
Editor
For a sixth straight year Owen Hewett is doing his part to ensure those in need can stay warm this winter.
The soon-to-be nine-year-old Napanee boy made his annual trip to Morningstar Mission on Monday, delivering $2,100 worth of mittens, hats and scarves that will be doled out to the those living on the streets over the next couple of weeks. Hewett’s endeavor began when he was just of shy of turning three and his dad told him to wear his gloves. When he refused his dad reminded him how lucky he was to have gloves to wear as there were those in the community who weren’t so fortunate. Hewett took that message to heart and began collecting money for winter clothing for those in need. What started with just friends and family has ballooned over the years to now several members of the community chipping in to assist. Giant Tiger once again helped out by offering clothing at a reduced price while Clayton Flooring contributed $500 towards the cause. The Kingston Frontenacs got in on the act this year, donating scarves and toques.
On Monday Hewett and his dad delivered several shopping bags worth of clothing to Morningstar Mission executive director Kevin Alkenbrack.
“People are sleeping in their car, their hands are cold, their feet are cold,” said Alkenbrack. “Everyday. Poverty never changes.”
With the cost of a cab ride increasing, Alkenbrack said people would be more likely to simply walk places in the cold because they can’t afford the fare.
“If you or I lose their mitts, we just go buy another pair,” Alkenbrack said to Hewett. “The people that we serve they just go around with their hands in their pockets because their hands are freezing. This makes a huge difference.”
To date Hewett has collected $6,500 worth of clothing over the last six years.
As he does every year Hewett maintained his promise to continue his cause until he reaches the age of 75.