Coats for Kids isn’t just about coats, for kids, it’s about snow pants too, and boots … in fact, it’s about all kinds of winter clothing for people of all ages.
As winter descends on the region for the next several months, so to does the annual Coats for Kids campaign, which aims to keep children and families warm for the duration of the season.
“We’re obviously taking donations for Coats for Kids. They’re coming in, but they’re coming in slowly. We could definitely use some more snow pants, we don’t have a whole lot, and toques and mitts for sure,” said Family and Community Support Services executive director Tracy Proulx.
FCSS is taking the lead with the campaign and coats can be picked up or dropped off at the FCSS office, upstairs at 10004 107 Street between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
There are currently two racks of children’s coats and another with adult coats just waiting to be taken by those who can use them. It’s open to anyone in need. All you need to do is walk in and take a coat, it’s all anonymous, as are donations.
Proulx shared the story of a generous local couple, who prefer to remain unnamed, that donated 52 coats this year.
They went to Value Village on half-price day and filled up two carts with coats they then donated.
“It was amazing,” she said. “Those are the nice, warm and fuzzy stories that you want to hear about.”
All donations are appreciated, but it is asked that the items are clean, functional and in good condition. The warmest coat can’t do its job if the zipper doesn’t work properly.
