Local charity Baby It's Cold Outside has extended their Throw In the Towel Drive as the need for towels and linens increases. 

Pamela Morgan, BCO founder and president, says they have brought in two SUV's full of towels to the Mustard Seed and the Calgary Drop-In Centre already.

"When we were the Drop-In Centre in Calgary this week they still only had one and a half bins and it would probably have 60-80 towels in each bin."  

Morgan says the Drop-In and Mustard Seed both service approximately 200 people at a time, not to mention the programs they run outside of the centre, so 160 donated towels is fantastic, but there is still a ways to go.

"We're so appreciative, especially to our Foothills community, but they just need more." Morgan says "This is just a drop in the bucket."

Many people can be hesitant to donate to the homeless population, stereotypes of addictions and self inflicted situations cause many to steer clear, but Morgan says for many homeless people that's not the case.  

"It could be the girl who's serving you coffee in the restaurant, she could be sleeping in her car.  It could also be your son's friend who may be couch-surfing that's homeless... it's hidden homeless."

Many of the people using this product are getting back on their feet, whether it's transitional housing or low income help.

The Calgary Drop-In Centre services 40 different programs that help those in need throughout the city and the Foothills.

BCO is also accepting gently used linens and of course clothing.

Morgan says anything people can donate they will accept, they'll even come and pick it up from you.

There are two drop off bins in Okotoks, one at the Chatters Hair Salon, the other at Staples.

To arrange a personal pick-up, you can text Pamela Morgan at 403-660-3648, or message BCO on their Facebook Page.

To read an article about the hidden homeless that BCO helps click here to be re-directed to their website.

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