Governor Scott Walker Joins Wisconsin Tourism Industry in Support of 6th Annual “Big Bundle Up” Campaign

Madison – Governor Scott Walker and Wisconsin’s tourism industry are teaming up to help thousands of Wisconsin residents stay warm this winter with The Big Bundle Up campaign. Now in its sixth year, the statewide charity initiative encourages people to donate new or gently used gloves, hats, scarves, coats, and other warm winter gear for those in need. Since 2011, Wisconsin residents, travelers, and businesses contributed more than 71,800 winter items, which were then donated to charities across the state.

“Thanks to the kindness of local organizations who serve as collection sites and the generosity of individuals and businesses that donate, this program continues to be a tremendous success,” Governor Walker said. “We can’t thank the tourism industry members enough for their participation as well as the people of Wisconsin for donating to this great cause.”

Travel Wisconsin Welcome Centers, tourist information centers, businesses and offices across the state are serving as drop off sites today through January 2, 2017. A complete list of locations is available online here.

In addition to individual donations at visitor centers, several private Wisconsin businesses have also contributed to the campaign. The last three years, Wisconsin Knitwear, a Milwaukee-based company, generously provided a total of 4,700 knit hats, which were donated to The United Way of Greater Milwaukee. Wisconsin Knitwear has agreed to assist with this year’s campaign, increasing their donation from 2,000 hats to 3,000.

“The Big Bundle Up brings together the entire tourism industry for a common cause – to spread the warmth across the state,” said Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett. “This award-winning campaign embodies what the state of Wisconsin is all about.”

The public can also drop donations off at the Wisconsin Executive Residence, which is open for holiday open house tours. Tours of the residence, which is beautifully decorated for the holidays, are free and open to the public. For more information and the open house tour schedule, please visit the Executive Residence website.

The Big Bundle Up campaign received a “Best in Show” Award and an “Award of Excellence” at the 2013 Public Relations Society of America’s Paragon Awards in Milwaukee.

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 travel information can be found at www.TravelWisconsin.com.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.