As winter approaches, PHS Community Services Society is calling on the community to help replenish urgently needed winter clothing and supplies at their shelters for people experiencing homelessness.
Through our annual Clothing Drive (Sat. Nov 7 and Sun. Nov. 8, 2026), PHS hopes to collect essential clothing and supplies that will help shelter guests stay warm and dry throughout the region’s coldest months.
For people who are unhoused, access to showers, laundry facilities, or clean clothing is not guaranteed. Clean, weather-appropriate clothing helps protect against rain, cold, skin conditions, infections, and other health risks caused by prolonged exposure to the elements.
“Something as simple as a clean, dry coat can make an immediate difference in a person’s comfort, health, and dignity,” says Amy Harkness, Project Operations Manager Sheltering & Outreach Continuum. “Every winter, our team relies on the generosity of community members to help ensure shelter guests have access to essential clothing when they need it most.”
Originally launched in 2021 by frontline staff supporting shelter guests, the annual clothing drive returns to replenish clothing stocks at PHS’s three Vancouver shelters: The Osborn, New Fountain Shelter, and The Lark, which together provide approximately 220 shelter beds and a range of frontline supports for people experiencing homelessness.
Growing Need Among Unhoused Seniors
This year, PHS has seen a significant increase in the number of seniors accessing its shelters in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.
Many older adults arrive at our shelters carrying few personal belongings. Access to clean, warm clothing, can help protect them from harsh weather conditions during difficult circumstances.
There is also a high need for Men’s clothing, in particular, which is urgently needed.
How can you help?
PHS is encouraging individuals, families, workplaces, schools, faith groups, and local businesses to organize their own collection boxes and gather donations in advance of the clothing drive. See the poster below for event detail.
Drop off your items on Sat., Nov. 7 or Sun., Nov. 8 between 11 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Your items will be sorted and redistributed across PHS’s Vancouver shelters and programs throughout the winter months, ensuring support reaches people where and when it is needed most. Participating groups will also be recognized through PHS’s social media channels.
“As you clean out closets, cupboards, and storage spaces this fall, consider giving your gently used clothing a second life,” says Harkness.”Your donation can provide warmth, comfort, and dignity to someone facing a very difficult winter.”
Event Details:
Download a PDF A4 poster for your location
CONTACT US: info@phs.ca 
Most needed Items:
- Waterproof jackets & winter coats
- Sweaters
- Pants (athletic, jeans, cotton)
- Boots
- Socks
- New cotton underwear & socks
- Hats, scarves & gloves
- Camping gear (tents, sleeping bags, blankets)
Every donation, whether it’s a winter coat, pair of boots, blanket, or a package of new cotton underwear, helps ensure vulnerable community members have access to essential clothing and supplies throughout the winter months.
The availability of winter clothing for shelter guests depends heavily on community donations, making every contribution meaningful.
