The New Year is ushering in hope and warmth for those in need in Tucson, as thousands of blankets arrived on Friday, December 30, a necessary provision for the homeless population.

Made possible by the U.S. Department of Defense homeless blanket program, 11,400 blankets were donated to provide much needed warmth to the homeless and families in need during the colder winter season.

Despite Arizona’s generally warm winters, the nighttime temperatures can dip dangerously low, making blankets and shelter very important for those in need.

The blankets were originally scheduled to be delivered in the middle of January, but U.S. Rep. Martha McSally (R-Dist. 1) pushed for an earlier date, citing the cold weather and urgent need.

The blankets will be kept at a Tucson Department of Transportation facility to be distributed throughout the year at locations such as the Salvation Army Hospitality House and the Gospel Rescue Mission.

To find out how you can help make a difference for the homeless community in Tucson, consider visiting The Salvation Army Tucson or United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona.