Big Bundle Up A Successful Effort

With colder temperatures covering the state, thousands of Wisconsinites will be able to “bundle up” thanks to the generous donations made by Wisconsin residents, travelers and businesses through the Wisconsin Department of Tourism’s “Big Bundle Up” campaign. A total of 22,510 winter clothing items, including hats, mittens, scarves, coats and snow pants, were donated to charities throughout Wisconsin. This was the fifth year of the campaign and the largest annual collection to date. Since 2011, the campaign has totaled more than 71,800 donated items.

“Each year this campaign continues to grow and so does the generosity of Wisconsinites and industry leaders who donate their time and resources to provide warm clothing to those in need,” Governor Scott Walker said. “Once again, this campaign successfully brought communities together to positively impact residents around the state, and we thank everyone who took part in making it happen.”Big Bundle Up

 The campaign, which stemmed from the 2012 “Great Lakes Mitten Campaign,” invited the public to donate new and gently used winter items to participating Travel Wisconsin Welcome Centers, chambers of commerce, convention and visitors bureaus and local businesses. After the completion of the campaign on Jan. 4, tourism partners donated the collected items to community charitable organizations and shelters.

“We are thrilled to see the dedication and enthusiasm of our tourism partners in keeping the spirit of this campaign alive for the fifth year running,” said Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett. “It’s gratifying to see how their combined efforts to support this campaign have engaged communities all across the state and, in turn, provided for residents in need.”Wade House. 

Wisconsin leaders and businesses also did their part to help keep the state warmer this winter. Since 2011, the campaign has grown to draw corporate donations, including an annual donation from Miwaukee-based Wisconsin Knitwear. The company donated 2,000 hats this year, increasing from last year’s donation of 1,200. The campaign also received 3,500 hats from an anonymous private business. 

The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the State as the Midwest’s premier travel destination for fun by executing industry-leading marketing programs and establishing strategic partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. The portal for traveler information can be found at: www.travelwisconsin.com.