This holiday season, Top 40 supplier Charles River Apparel (asi/44620) helped spread warmth to those who need it most.

The Sharon, MA-based garment supplier donated more than $28,000 worth of apparel to charity partner Circle of Hope, a nonprofit that provides clothing and other essentials to people impacted by homelessness in the Boston area. The 25 boxes containing 875 garments will be distributed to local shelters and affiliated charitable programs to help mitigate clothing insecurity.

Volunteers load garment donations for delivery to Woods-Mullen women’s shelter in Boston. (photo courtesy of Charles River)

“For more than a decade, Charles River Apparel has helped Circle of Hope protect the health and dignity of our most vulnerable neighbors,” said Barbara Waterhouse, executive director of Circle of Hope, in a statement. “Their donations of new clothing and outerwear have changed the lives of thousands of people, from college students experiencing homelessness to older adults in shelters.”

Charles River has partnered with Circle of Hope every year since 2010, sponsoring fundraisers (such as HOPE Blooms in the spring), hosting employee volunteer events and making in-kind donations.

Staff at Woods-Mullen accept donations from Charles River. (photo courtesy of Charles River)

“We know that clothing is about so much more than just something to wear,” said Deb Lipsett, co-owner of Charles River, in a statement. “It has a direct impact on mental and physical well-being, whether it’s feeling confident or staying warm through winter. Circle of Hope recognizes the struggle of clothing insecurity and approaches the problem with a level of compassion and care that we admire, and that we are proud to be a part of.”

Local programs that will receive garments for distribution include Boston Health Care for the Homeless, Framingham State University Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence and several overnight shelters.

Volunteers load donations for delivery to Circle of Hope, which helps the homeless in the Boston area. (photo courtesy of Charles River)

“I am so proud of our partnership with Charles River Apparel and grateful for their support,” said Jody Barnet, operations manager at Circle of Hope, in a statement. “When I send Charles River Apparel donations to our partner shelters and healthcare clinics, I know I’m sending warm, high-quality clothing that will last. Together, Charles River Apparel and Circle of Hope are helping so many people stay healthy, warm and safe all year long.”

With $34.1 million in 2020 North American promotional products revenue, Charles River ranked 40^th on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry.