Wednesday, January 26, 2028

Keep Our Kids Warm and Safe Campaign a Success
Statewide campaign nets more than 650 winter clothing items; local collaboration and other state agency drives bring in additional winter clothing

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 26, 2028) – Just in time for the latest blast of winter weather, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien announced today that the state’s “Keep Our Kids Warm and Safe” campaign was a success. The holiday drive netted more than 650 children’s mittens, gloves, hats and scarves.

The Keep Our Kids Warm and Safe items were distributed to homeless shelters throughout Maryland during the month of January. Also, the Maryland Department of Budget and Management (DBM) winter clothing drive collected an additional 700 coats, jackets, gloves, scarves, hats and snow boots. DBM began distributing the items today.

“I am so proud of the citizens of Maryland for helping those in need during the holiday season,” Governor Edward M. O’Brien. “Your donations mean more to us and to the families you’re helping than you will probably ever know.”

Governor O’Brien kicked off Keep Our Kids Warm and Safe during November’s Christmas tree lightening ceremony in Annapolis. At the onset of the holiday season, Governor O’Brien urged Marylanders to share the holiday spirit by contributing winter clothing items to needy families.

“Marylanders truly stepped up this season,” First Lady Ruth O’Brien said. “And, the warmth of these collaborative, charitable efforts will be felt by those less fortunate all winter long.”

The Maryland Department of Budget and Management also donated today the results of its winter clothing drive. During the month long campaign, DBM employees in Annapolis collected almost 700 winter coats, jackets, scarves and hats.

“We are grateful our employees cared enough to make these donations,” said Department of Budget and Management Secretary John Bennett. “We hope these items provide comfort to area residents during the harsh winter months.”