As temperatures begin to drop, Brantford residents are once again proving that warmth isn’t only found in coats and scarves—it’s found in community spirit.
The third annual Out of the Cold Winter Clothing Drive, hosted by real estate professionals Kate Broddick and Joshua Wall, drew residents together Tuesday evening for a cause that continues to grow stronger each year.
A Simple Idea That Grew into a Community Tradition
What began as a small gesture of compassion three years ago has now become one of Brantford’s most anticipated community events.
“I wanted to get more involved with the community,” said Kate Broddick, co-founder of the initiative.
“As a mom of three boys, I often think about the children in our city who go without during the winter. A clothing drive felt like something tangible that could make a difference.”
That initial impulse—helping families through the harsh months—has since expanded. “Now we’re helping everyone,” Broddick explained.
“Boys, girls, men, and women. We’ve seen the event grow every single year.”
Broddick said this year’s drive has already exceeded expectations: “We started with more than last year, and back then we filled an entire Sprinter van. Every donation counts. Whether we’re helping ten families or a hundred, it makes a difference.”
“Extreme Gratitude” for a City That Shows Up
Her co-organizer Joshua Wall, who co-founded the event with Broddick, said the community’s generosity has been overwhelming.
“When Kate called me that first year and said, ‘I want to make a difference,’ I was immediately on board,” Wall recalled.
“Since then, it’s ballooned into something huge.”
This year’s drive collected hats, coats, mitts, boots, and new socks and underwear.
The donations will be sorted through local social service partners, including Rosewood House, before being distributed to shelters and families in need.
“The feeling tonight is one of gratitude,” Wall said. “Every day for the past month, someone’s been calling or messaging me to donate. Parents from my daughter’s school filled my car with bags of clothing. It’s amazing to see how much people care.”
Beyond a One-Day Event
Both organizers believe this initiative is only the beginning.
“As long as Josh and I are in real estate, we’ll keep doing this,” Broddick affirmed. “The more traction we gain, the bigger it gets. And we encourage other real estate teams, agents, and community members to join in—our door is always open.”
Wall agrees that community engagement is Brantford’s greatest strength.
“This city really punches above its weight,” he said. “From neighbourhood associations to food pantries and community gardens, people here care for each other. You don’t need to wait for a special time of year to give—there’s always someone who needs a hand.”
A Warm Reminder
The Out of the Cold Winter Clothing Drive took place November 6 at The Kate Broddick Team offices, 265 King George Road in the Food Basics Plaza.
Donations are still being accepted, and residents are encouraged to contribute throughout the season.
For Broddick, the heart of the event is simple: “I’m just really grateful for our community. When people come together to help those in need—it’s truly wonderful to see.”
For more information or to contribute, visit The Kate Broddick Team and Benson Crew Real Estate Team offices in Brantford.
