Old man winter’s cold embrace has enveloped Westlock and Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is working hard to ensure that its Coats 4 Kids program is well stocked.
A walk-in wardrobe has been set up at the FCSS office and people in need of a warm coat, boots, mittens or other winter wear are welcome to it.
“It’s open to anyone in need,” said FCSS program assistant Bonnie Breadon. “Anyone can come in and take what they need.”
Of course, clothes don’t grow on trees and FCSS is reliant on donations of used or new items to keep the service going.
As the program is fueled by donations, one challenge support workers face is ensuring that the entire spectrum of low-income residents have items they can use.
This year they’re specifically in need of children’s ski pants, winter boots and mittens.
“We’re short on little kids things, but it’s early in the winter,” said Breadon. “There’s been donations and there’s been quite a few people coming in to look.”
FCSS is happy to take whatever is offered, but they ask that donations are clean and in good shape.
“Sometimes we’ll get really dirty stuff, or the zipper doesn’t work or other problems,” said Breadon.
“However, we are very grateful of donations of good, clean items.”
Clothing can be picked up or dropped off at the FCSS office located at 10004 107 Street between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
