Warming Tree open for donations for the cold season ahead

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The temperatures are finally dropping, and many of us are breaking out our hoodies and sweaters.

But what are your options if you do not have the proper clothing to stay warm?

This is the Bowling Green’s Warming Tree’s ninth operating season. 

Located near the corner of Louisville Road and U.S. 31-W at the Riverwalk bridge, the tree is set up with the goal to help those in need. 

The motto of the tree is ‘Take what you need, leave what you can,” which encourages folks to leave food or winter clothing items at the tree for homeless individuals to access when needed. 

Teresa Douglas, the creator of the Warming Tree, says items that really help outside of clothing are food and heat sources to warm the food, such as food warming candles, hand sanitizer and other toiletries. 

“I knew the homeless frequented this bridge in the river area, and now there are warming trees all over the United States, basically. There are the people that had helped in the past. They do get on their feet and get places to live and everything. I do love interacting with them here and their stories,” said Douglas.

If you would like to donate directly, either drop off items at the tree or click here.