Second Chances Thrift Store in Kamloops needs donations of warm clothes, blankets and boots.

(SHANNON AINSLIE / iNFOnews.ca)

With several areas of the province under an extreme cold warning, many people are struggling to stay warm, while others are working to help.

A thrift store in Kamloops is offering items for free in order to clothe and support those in need.

Second Chances Thrift Store opened a roomful of free items, Dec. 28, and is calling on residents to donate more warm items as an increasing amount of people are entering the store underdressed for the harsh elements.

READ MORE: Extreme cold warnings in Thompson, Shuswap, potential record-breaking cold today for Kelowna

Shannon Yamakawa is a front end staff member. 

“We see this as an emergency situation for some families and some from our marginalized population,” she said. “We opened a room at the back called the Kindness Closet where we give warm items for free. There is clothing, household items, personal items and more." 

Yamakawa said the store is a judgement free, friendly place where people can come to get warm and have a conversation. The Kindness Closet was initially scheduled to open in January, but the plan was rushed forward.

“One lady came in wearing thin leggings with skin exposed,” she said. “She needs everything, gloves, boots, hats and personal belongings as well. Most women have a difficult time asking for help.”

Yamakawa said donations of winter clothes, boots and blankets are needed.

The store has been running for a couple of years with the help of volunteers, with partial proceeds going to the BCSPCA.

“It is a very friendly environment,” Yamakawa said. “Some come in to warm up and have a chat. We are just here to help in a judgement-free zone."

An extreme cold warning was issued by Environment Canada this morning. It covers the North and South Thompson, Nicola, Similkameen, Shuswap, Fraser Canyon, Kinbasket, East and North Columbia regions.

READ MORE: Extreme cold warnings issued for Kamloops, Shuswap, Similkameen

Donations can be dropped off Monday to Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the 1211 8 Street location.

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