Calgary non-profit pays it forward, distributing hundreds of free handbags to women in need

Samantha Schmidt, the program manager for the Women in Need Society (WINS) said the organization will distribute close to 800 free handbags this year.

Hundreds of women in Calgary will be getting a free handbag thanks to a fundraiser.

The Women in Need Society (WINS) has been asking people since Mother’s Day to donate a gently-used handbag, filled with unopened items, from toothpaste to feminine hygiene products.

Since the Handbags for Hearts campaign began, more than 500 bags have been dropped off.

However, they are encouraging people to continue to donate.

“We continue to receive them all throughout the year,” said WINS program manager Samantha Schmidt. “So, this wasn’t a Mother’s Day initiative, however we continue to receive these and give them out throughout the year

“We anticipate being able to give out closer to 800 this year.”

Schmidt said the handbags can build confidence and empowerment for the women they serve.

You can donate gently-used handbags at any WINS store in the city.

For more about WINS, go here.