NILES — While temperatures may be pleasantly warm, colder weather is just around the corner.

With the aim to make sure every child has access to warm winter gear, the Niles Service League is collecting money for a Bundle a Buddy fundraiser.

Through Sept. 23, shoppers who visit Martin’s, 720 S. 11th St., can donate a $1 for the cause up at the register. Flyers will be at the register to make customers aware. All proceeds will go to the Niles Service League, helping them to purchase coats, hats, mittens and boots to children in need.

Joy Shreve, the vice president of the Niles Service League, said it is a way to assure that children and their families who cannot afford a coat can have access to warm clothing. 

“It’s a very simple fundraiser that Martin’s teams up with us to do,” Shreve said. “It is a really positive thing for a local business to help provide for the community.”

Shreve said the fundraiser is a tradition that the Niles Service League takes part in every year as the winter months approach. Collecting funds in the fall gives the organization ample time to purchase and distribute coats to youth who need them, before the first snow blows in.

Children who need a coat are advised to speak with their school counselor, who can then get in touch with the Niles Service League. Families can also email the Niles Service League to request a coat at nileserviceleague@gmail.com.

Shreve said she encouraged her community to support Bundle a Buddy and reminded them that every dollar counts.

“Every donation helps to increase the [number] of children that we will be able to provide for,” Shreve said. “It’s a very nominal amount. If we could get a dollar from hundreds of people, that means more than a large donation from a few people.”

The Niles Service League was founded by a group of women who were interested in the welfare of local children. Today, the organization is made up of volunteers who continue this mission. The organization serves children in the Niles, Brandywine and Buchanan school districts.

Some of their efforts include college and vocational scholarships, camperships, clothing/eyeglasses for students, Holiday Adopt-a-Family and community contributions. This year, the organization will celebrate 85 years of serving their community. Additionally, the organization is always searching for volunteers to join the cause. Those interested can contact the NSL at nileserviceleague@gmail.com.