Another year, another great response from the community to KVOE’s Mitten Tree Drive.
The 2025 drive managed to generate just over 430 items of clothing to benefit students, families and individuals served by SOS, Emporia High School’s Spartan Stop and the Salvation Army of Emporia. Representatives of all three agencies say the donations come at a time when the need for basic items such as clothing is at critical highs.
In addition to the Mitten Tree Drive, SOS also benefits from other charitable endeavors each holiday season, including Kari’s Christmas Ring for Kids. SOS Director Mickey Edwards says that the fact that so many agencies are willing to step up and support SOS at this time of year shows the true impact they make year-round.
Emporia native and Spartan Stop Coordinator Heather Wagner says she knows she can always count on her hometown to step up when needs are high. She adds that being able to provide for a need like clothing this time of year means more money for families to address other areas, such as food insecurity.
Emporia Salvation Army Captain Mylie Hadden says the donations are very timely.
Mitten trees were located at nine local businesses over the last several weeks. The list of locations were as follows:
Bluestem Farm & Ranch Supply – 2611 W. Hwy 50
Browns Shoe Fit – 603 Commercial
Emporia Public Library (compliments of Cargill, Inc.) – 110 E. 6th Ave
Mel’s Tire – 915 Graham St.
NexTech Wireless – 1670B Industrial
Gravel City Roasters & Trox Gallery– 715 Commercial
State Farm Insurance agent Kyle Thompson – 411 W. 6th Ave
Champions Landing – 1801 Rural
Lyon County State Bank – 1202 Industrial Road
