Kleefisch Visits Racine to Promote the Big Bundle Up

Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch stopped in Racine County Tuesday to help promote the Big Bundle Up winter clothing drive.

Similar to the mitten drive last winter, the Big Bundle Up aims to help our less fortunate neighbors gear up against the cold of winter. 

"Last year started as a kind of competition between Wisconsin and Michigan for which state looked more like a mitten," Kleefisch said. "But this year we expanded past mittens to coats, hats, and scarves."

More than 3,100 pairs of mittens or gloves were donated in 2011, and Kleefisch hopes to beat that number this year.

"I know we can do it because the people of Wisconsin are generous and giving," she added.

The drive started the first week of December and runs through Jan. 4. Donations of new or gently used winter gear can be dropped off at The Real Racine Visitor Center, 14015 Washington Ave. and, on the west end, at the Waterford Chamber of Commerce.

Paul Holley from Real Racine said donations have been steadily coming through the door at the travel center.

"People are really stepping up and are generous," he said. 

There are 70 travel centers and chambers of commerce across the state where residents can drop off their winter gear.

All donations dropped off in Racine County stay in Racine County, Kleefisch confirmed.

"Everywhere donations are accepted benefit locally from this kindness," she stated.