Marblehead, MA -- The Marblehead School of Ballet (MSB) and the North Shore Civic Ballet's (NSCB) fifth annual winter clothing drive was a success! The drive, which ran from October 1 through December 14, 2024, collected a record 224 garments and expanded upon the momentum of the 2023 collection of winter coats for people of all ages and new pajama sets for children.

With more families facing economic hardships and homelessness, helping neighbors in need get through the cold winter was a priority. "During our 53rd season, it was our pleasure to continue the holiday winter coat and pajama drive to help people in the community stay warm and snug during the cold winter months. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone, who contributed to this meaningful cause, and we are grateful to have such a caring community," said Paula K. Shiff, Director, Marblehead School of Ballet.

The winter coats were given to Anton’s Cleaners, which cleaned the coats free-of-charge to distribute through the Coats for Kids and Families Distribution Network to 90 nonprofit organizations, social service agencies, schools, and religious groups in Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The new pajamas were given to Lynn Economic Opportunity, a nonprofit in Lynn, Massachusetts working with children and families and a provider of early education and care in southern Essex County.         

The drive lessened the hardships families face. "This annual drive brings us great joy to work alongside our community to provide warm coats for adults, teens, and children and cozy pajamas for the little ones. Every year, we are amazed by the community’s generosity. We wish the children many warm and snuggly nights ahead," said Rosemary Grant, a member of the NSCB board of trustees.

“Thank you, Marblehead School of Ballet and the North Shore Civic Ballet, for your constant generosity to the children and families in our programs! For struggling families, pajamas are a low priority, a luxury. Many of us know nothing feels better than taking off the clothes you spent your day in and getting cozy warm for bed. You provided love,” said Julie Danahy Hebeisen, Communications Manager, Lynn Economic Opportunity.

About Marblehead School of Ballet

Celebrating its 53rd year, the Marblehead School of Ballet, founded in 1971 by Paula K. Shiff, has earned a wide reputation for the excellence of its training and integrity of purpose. Classical ballet forms the core of teaching with particular emphasis on correct alignment and development of strength and agility. The sheer pleasure of dance and music is always central to the classroom experience.

The basic graded program for children includes classes in ballet technique with advanced work in repertoire and pointe. The school also offers a modern dance department, classes for young children in creative movement and classes in improvisation and technique for the older student. A full range of adult classes is offered.

The MSB is home to the North Shore Civic Ballet Company (NSCB). The NSCB gives concert performances and a variety of educational programs for schools; all are suitable for different age groups and levels of development.

About North Shore Civic Ballet Company

The North Shore Civic Ballet, a not-for-profit dance company based at the Marblehead School of Ballet, has provided performances and arts education to the Greater Boston community for 50 years. Artistic Director Paula K. Shiff and Associate Director Florence C. Whipple founded the company in 1974.

The NSCB is home to an ever-changing group of talented dancers made up of both seasoned professionals and aspiring young dancers. For several years, Ivan Korn, resident choreographer, has created a range of work for the ballet company.

For further information, call 781-631-6262, send an e-mail to [email protected] or visit www.marbleheadschoolofballet.com.