IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Pure Water and Air, situated on Fairbanks Avenue near the WWII Glider Museum, has left its front entrance wide open for a 24-hour coat drive. Danielle Hebert, the store owner, emphasizes the initiative’s purpose: “We started this last year as a way to get more involved with the community, and try to do something small to help.”
Hebert notes the significance of the drive being accessible without the need for direct interaction: “Sometimes people are prideful and afraid to ask for help, so we wanted it to be something they could still come in, pick out what they need, and take and go.”
The establishment, known for selling in-home air purification systems, is not only accepting coat donations but is ensuring each item is freshly laundered. Winter gear like hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, boots, and even snow pants are also welcomed. “Boots are always the first to go,” Hebert reveals, adding that more gloves and mittens are currently in demand.
Reflecting on the success of the previous year, Hebert shares, “It went really well. Everybody was really excited about it. We’ve had amazing people donate and drop off, way more than I’ve ever expected.” She highlights the variety of items received, catering to all age groups and genders.
Concerning after-hours donations, Hebert mentions a side entrance for convenience. “If anybody has extra boots, please bring those in; those are the first things to always go right away, especially for kids’ snow pants,” she urges.
To ensure safety and quality, Hebert explains their process: “When someone brings stuff in, if they’re not able to bring them in during hours, we have them contact us, but we do go ahead and just take them all and bring them in the next day.”
The store remains open seven days a week, with a backside door for secure donations. Hebert encourages community members to utilize this option, assuring, “Everything goes back there, and it’s safe.” The store is regularly open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. central, with a part-time staff member available on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday evenings from 4 to 8 p.m. central.
Hebert concludes, “If people are ever in need of anything, they can always call, and someone always answers all the time,” assuring that the staff at Pure Water and Air are here to help the community in any way they can.
The store is located at 200 Fairbanks Avenue in Iron Mountain
