Flint Rapper Jeff Skigh Organizing Winter Clothes Drive for Families

Jeff Skigh’s motivation to organize a Winter Warmth Drive comes from an easily understandable place: he knows firsthand what it is like to face a harsh winter without warm enough clothes.

“I grew up with a lack of resources,” Skigh said. “So I felt like if I can do something to help, I should do it.”

Skigh is a rapper and musician, writer, activist, and artist who has always had the Flint community in mind in all of his ventures – he says that Flint “has always shown up for me, now it’s my turn to show up for Flint.” For the Winter Warmth Drive, he partnered with several local businesses to serve as drop off locations for new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, mittens, and gift cards or monetary contributions. Items will be provided to four local organizations that work with vulnerable populations, including Shelter of Flint, St. Mark Community Outreach, St. Luke N.E.W. Life Center, and YWCA of Greater Flint. Donations are being accepted through December 20 at:

• Beachamps Ace Hardware
• Queens’ Provisions
• Flint Local 432
• Churchill’s
• Redline Brewery
• SMOK Cannabis
• Planted
• URB
• Wonderland
• The Red Baron

Skigh is grateful that so many businesses were supportive of the effort and wanted to work with him on the drive, which he plans to turn into an annual event.

“I mean, it means a lot, honestly, especially when it comes to the businesses,” Skigh said. “Because a lot of those businesses are competing with each other. So for them to come together for something like this that is just trying to help the community, it just says a lot and it’s greatly appreciated for sure.”

Skigh is also hosting a special “Wine & Rhymes” benefit night from 7-10 p.m. on December 12 at Queens’ Provisions, 421 Garland Street, in Carriage Town. The evening will feature performances from Skigh, Baybro, Figga Da Kid, Taylor Tatum, Twicee, Gunhood Zeke, King Cashes, and Cris Da Boss. All proceeds from the event support the drive, and attendees can get in for free if they bring one item to donate.

“I just always like to do stuff to help bring the community together and help people in need, so this is just another way I could help,” Skigh said. “I hope it’s something that actually benefits a lot of people.”