It is a simple concept. Winter in Barrhead is cold and people who need to go outside into the elements need to protect themselves with proper outerwear, namely a good winter coat.
However, the unfortunate reality is not everyone who needs a winter coat has one.
That is where Coats for Kids come in.
From Oct. 17 to Oct. 27 Barrhead will be collecting winter jackets, snow pants and other winter apparel such a toques, scarves and mittens to distribute through FCSS to families in need.
Lane Lee, Barrhead Cleaners owner, said the program was started 27 years ago, in large part, because of then Barrhead Leader general manager Al Blackmere.
“Al noticed there were a lot of children in the community who did not have appropriate winter attire so he came to me and asked if I would be willing to collect, clean and help distribute the coats to needy families. If I did that he said he would make sure the word got out through the Leader,” he said, adding other sponsors soon stepped forward to help cover the costs of the cleaning, such as long-time sponsor Servus Credit Union.
However Lane said it quickly became evident that a new system was needed.
Initially the program started out small. People would drop off their gently used winter attire to Lane, where he would clean them and in some cases, where he could, make minor repairs to the garments.
Unfortunately, Lane said it became quickly evident that another system was needed because of not only the need in the community for the program, but because of the generosity of Barrhead area residents.
“I’m really not set up to distribute coats. At times it could get really crowded, with customers coming in at the same time people were trying on coats,” he said “Plus people who need a coat might not always feel comfortable coming in.”
That is when Lane decided to ask FCSS if they would take on distribution duties.
“It really is a better fit,” he said, adding not only does FCSS have more room, but it is often the first place people go when they are in need.”
Last year, FCSS provided winter coats for 25 children and 27 adults along with five ski pants.
FCSS community development volunteer co-ordinator Ros Rudd, said while that might not sound like a lot, it can make all the difference for someone who doesn’t have appropriate winter wear.
She also noted that the need seems to be on the rise, in the previous year, FCSS distributed 38 coats.
Lane added that while the program is primarily for children from newborns to late teens, all sizes of apparel are accepted.
“FCSS won’t turn anyone away and if we get coats that are unserviceable, we will find another use for it,” he said, adding any extra coats are donated to charities in Edmonton such as the Mustard Seed.
Anyone interested in donating winter outerwear for Coats For Kids can drop off their donations at Barrhead Cleaners, 5013-51 Street during regular business hours. All donations should be in good condition because, although Barrhead Cleaners launders all the items and can make small repairs to the clothing, they do not have the time to make major repairs. Servus Credit Union, 4929-50 Avenue, is also taking donations.
Coat distribution will begin on Nov. 1 and go for the entire month, at the Barrhead and District FCSS building at 5115-45 St.
