The Empowerment Plan - Warmest Winter
Over the last two weeks, Chicago has finally been feeling properly wintery. Temperatures have regularly been staying below freezing all day, sometimes just barely hovering above zero, and there’s been a constant dusting of snow over the grass and sidewalks. It can be a drag to get around in these temperatures, even knowing a warm home or workplace is imminent. I cannot imagine being homeless and facing the unrelenting midwestern winter, and it is estimated that over 100,000 individuals face this prospect in Chicago alone.
Warmest Winter is a project to help the homeless in Chicagoland. Chance the Rapper partnered with the Empowerment Plan to fundraise and acquire nearly 1,200 EMPWR coats to be distributed via local homeless advocacy organizations. The coat:
“is a water-resistant and self-heating jacket, which can transform into a sleeping bag, or be worn as an over-the-shoulder bag when not in use. The coat is constructed of upcycled automotive insulation, fabric from Carhartt, and other materials provided by generous donors.”
The versatility of this design is notable in itself, and the partnership with the Empowerment Plan makes these coats even more special. This organization primarily hires
“homeless parents from local shelters to become full time seamstresses so that they can earn a stable income, find secure housing, and gain back their independence for themselves and for their families.”
Beyond providing coats for those living on the streets, this organization provides jobs for those who need it, facilitate staff in getting their GEDs, and operate with the end goal of empowering homeless individuals.
While currently based in Detroit, there are plans to open a new facility in Chicago do similar work. The fundraising is over for the current winter, but the work is ongoing and donations are still welcome.
