In times of hardship, it is the strength of a community that carries us forward. At Heart, Love & Soul, we are fortunate to have steadfast partners who share our mission of service and compassion. Among these, UAW Local 686 and the GM Lockport Team stand out—not only for their generosity but for their unwavering commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
The Outreach Backpack Drive: A Response to Tragedy
Recently, we mourned the loss of an unhoused neighbor in Niagara Falls. The harsh winter conditions reminded us of the urgent need for outreach and support. It was shortly after sharing this difficult news that we received a call from our friend Nicole at UAW/GM Lockport: “How can we help?”
At that moment, we were in the midst of our ongoing Outreach Backpack Drive. Our case managers consistently reach out to unhoused individuals, providing them with backpacks filled with essential supplies like warm clothing, hygiene products, and survival gear to offer comfort and protection from the winter elements. To ensure we had enough supplies, our Program Director, Marthe, put together a list of the most-needed items. Without hesitation, Nicole and the UAW/GM Lockport Team stepped up to help.
A History of Giving: The Annual Holiday Toy Drive
You may remember Nicole and her team from our annual holiday toy drive. Over the past few years, their contributions have transformed the event into something truly extraordinary. Each year, they collect a truckload of toys, arriving on campus to help organize and distribute them. Our team often says, “We couldn’t do the toy drive without GM.” Their presence, dedication, and joy bring the holiday spirit to so many children in our community.
A Generous Contribution: Delivering the Outreach Backpacks
When they offered to run a drive for our Outreach Backpacks, we knew our worries would soon be over. And deliver they did.
Last week, our Marketing Manager, Michael, drove to GM in Lockport to pick up the donations. He returned with a truck bed overflowing with essential items—hats, gloves, socks, slippers, batteries, and more. The sheer volume of generosity was astounding. It was yet another reminder of the incredible heart of this team.
Stepping Forward in Solidarity
In a world where it is easy to turn away, UAW Local 686 and the GM Lockport Team choose to step forward. They prove, time and again, that kindness, solidarity, and action can change lives.
To Nicole and the entire UAW/GM Lockport Team—thank you. Your generosity does not go unnoticed, and your impact is immeasurable.
Get Involved: Supporting the Outreach Backpack Drive
If you or your organization would like to support our Outreach Backpack Drive, please consider donating some of the following items to help those in need:
- Winter Accessories: Hat, gloves, scarf, and pairs of socks
- Hygiene Essentials: Toothbrushes & toothpaste, deodorant, soap, washcloths, chapstick, lotion, and combs or brushes
- Cold Weather Aids: Hand & foot warmers, tissues, and blankets
- Basic Necessities: Snacks, bottles of water, and flashlights
- Additional Items: Notepads, pens
For more information on how the Outreach Backpack Drive is making an impact, read our article Backpacks of Hope: Giving Essentials to the Homeless.
To get involved, please reach out to Kristina Daloia at k.daloia@heartloveandsoul.org or call 716-282-5687 ext. 107.
A Stronger Community, Together
Working alongside incredible partners like UAW Local 686 reminds us that Western New York is more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong, to uplift one another, and to build a future where no one is left behind.
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Media Contact Information
Michael Jones
Marketing and Communications Manager
Phone: 716-282-5687 Ext. 111
Email: m.jones@heartloveandsoul.org