UWW/Community Optimist Club is entering its 25th year of hosting the Mitten Tree collection, which continues this holiday season for the kids in our community!

Associated Bank, First Citizens State Bank, Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU) and PremierBank will be collection places in addition to several area churches including First English Lutheran Church. Check with your church to see if they are participating.

Donations will be accepted Friday, Nov. 22nd through Tuesday, December 12th by 4 p.m.

Our main needs are mittens, hats, and scarves. In addition, underwear, socks, snow boots, and snow pants (for elementary school kids) are encouraged as they are used for emergency items for the kids throughout the school year. Gift cards will also be accepted by Lanora Heim, Director of Pupil Services for the Whitewater Unified School District and Coordinator of the Family Emergency fund, to purchase items as needed.

There is a large need for smaller sizes since there are more than 300 children under age 5 in the Whitewater Unified School District.