Is it just me, or do you also feel like the mercury climbs over 100 degrees while you are lugging around your packages and your winter coat while finishing up your holiday shopping at the mall?

Wouldn’t shopping be easier if there was a safe place to check your belongings and shop without being weighed down by all of your stuff?

The Betty Brigade, a local personal assistance and concierge service, has arranged for just that, and all for the benefit of the Salvation Army of Southeast Michigan.

For your donation, volunteers will check your items in the Relaxation Station near the seating area by Von Maur. Here you can safely hand over your belongings while you relax to music by the Salvation Army Band, watch TV in the seating area, enjoy tastings from the Melting Pot and other local businesses, or continue hunting for the perfect gift.

Sharon McGrill, Betty Brigade owner, explains how this service is really a win/win situation for all involved. The coat check is being run by community volunteers partnering with the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor Chambers of Commerce. Area businesses have an opportunity to promote their company, work together, and volunteer their time for a worthy cause.

The area will also serve as a collection point for the three Angel Trees throughout the mall.

When: November 27 - December 24. 10am-9pm Monday through Saturday and 11am - 6pm on Sunday).

Where: Relaxation Station seating area in front of Von Maur.

Cost: your discretion; 100% of donations will go to the Salvation Army.

Looking to get involved? Contact Emily [emily@bettybrigade.com] at the Betty Brigade if you know of an area business that would like to volunteer their time.

Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals, and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com