RefrigiWear® Aids Western Alaska in Flood Recovery with Cold-Weather Gear Donation

RefrigiWear's Generous Donation to Western Alaska

In a powerful gesture of community support, RefrigiWear, renowned for its insulated industrial workwear, has stepped in to assist Western Alaska in the aftermath of Typhoon Halong's devastation. With more than $18,000 in critical cold-weather gear donated, the initiative aims to help recovery workers and families affected by the catastrophic flooding as winter sets in.

Collaboration with 6th Avenue Outfitters

The major donation is coordinated through 6th Avenue Outfitters, a Native Alaskan-owned cooperative based in Anchorage that plays a crucial role in this relief effort. They are leading the charge to gather, prepare, and distribute essential cold-weather supplies, collaborating closely with the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) and the Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP).

To amplify these efforts, 6th Avenue Outfitters has already organized a donation amounting to $30,000 dedicated to outdoor clothing and equipment. This package includes substantial amounts of winter boots and jackets to address the urgent needs of families and workers affected by the storm. RefrigiWear's contribution enhances this support, ensuring recovery teams can work efficiently while staying safe and warm during the winter months.

Gear Designed for Extreme Conditions

The donated gear from RefrigiWear encompasses items such as Freezer Edge® Jackets, Bib Overalls, and Insulated Abrasion Safety Gloves. Each product is engineered to perform in temperatures as low as -30°F. The outer shells of these garments feature wind-tight, water-repellent ripstop fabrics that include high-visibility reflective materials and durable insulation, tailored for enduring the rigors of harsh, cold working environments.

Kate Mauldin, the owner of 6th Avenue Outfitters, emphasized the importance of the gear, stating, "After nearly four decades outfitting Alaskans for the cold, we know RefrigiWear gear meets their needs perfectly. It's absolutely essential for those working and living in Alaska's harshest conditions."

The initial wave of gear delivery commenced through 6th Avenue Outfitters and AVCP, focusing efforts on supporting recovery crews throughout Western Alaska. Moreover, RefrigiWear's donation is also reaching Calista Corporation, addressing needs for additional personnel involved in the cleanup and rebuilding phases across the region. To maximize effectiveness, all gear was tailored to individual sizes, providing optimal protection against the severe winter climate.

AVCP was chosen as a key partner due to its established connections among 56 village councils in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, allowing for swift and efficient distribution of supplies to the communities most impacted by the flooding.

Continuing Relief Efforts

Further deliveries are already slated as family relocations occur to Bethel, Fairbanks, and Anchorage. In Anchorage alone, hundreds of displaced residents have benefited from over $5,000 worth of donations, including gloves, hats, and neck warmers, provided by 6th Avenue Outfitters' dedicated relief efforts.

Leigh Stadelmeier, Vice President of B2B Outdoor Sales for RefrigiWear, articulated pride in their involvement, stating, "In disaster recovery, the work is demanding, and the conditions are unforgiving. Our mission is to protect those who show up to do the hardest work, whether they are rebuilding their own community or helping their neighbors recover. Partnering with 6th Avenue Outfitters allows us to get this gear directly to the people who need it most."

The Importance of Proper Gear

The aftermath of Typhoon Halong has led to severe flooding on Alaska's western coastline, resulting in destroyed homes and the displacement of hundreds of families just as freezing temperatures creep in. As cleanup operations ramp up, the necessity for insulated gear cannot be overstated, as it is vital in safeguarding both safety and comfort in these extreme climates.

Stadelmeier concludes by highlighting the immense challenges: "These are some of the toughest working conditions anywhere. Our role is to support the people putting in the effort to get their communities back on their feet."

About RefrigiWear

Founded in 1954, RefrigiWear has built a strong reputation for manufacturing workwear that withstands the coldest and harshest of conditions. With a legacy rooted in real-world experience, the company is committed to producing high-quality insulated workwear that offers reliable protection. Their products are available online across the U.S. and through a broad distributor network. For more information, visit Pro.RefrigiWear.com.