In December I joined ClotheCharlotte in their effort to collect coats, hats, and gloves for the estimated 5,000 homeless people in Charlotte.

I added an extra incentive for most everyone I knew by offering up a portrait in exchange for a donation to the cause. The response was overwhelming!

© Armando Bellmas

My “ClotheCharlotte, get a portrait” drive collected over 50 clothing kits of coats, hats, and gloves.

© Armando Bellmas

On December 20, my son Nick and I helped sort and deliver the clothing kits with dozens of other ClotheCharlotte volunteers.

One of the best parts of the whole campaign was when Nick, realizing we were done volunteering and ready to go back home, said to me “I want to help out some more!”

Anyway, a big thanks to Joe and Nathan at ClotheCharlotte for getting it going and spreading the word. Also, thanks to everyone who donated, got a portrait, and helped us ClotheCharlotte this winter.