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 that not everyone who needs a winter coat has one.
That is where Coats for Kids come in.
From Oct. 9 to Nov.1, Barrhead Cleaners and Servus Credit Union will be collecting winter jackets, snow pants and other winter apparel such as toques, scarves and mittens to distribute through FCSS to families in need.
Lane Lee, Barrhead Cleaners owner, said the program was started 28 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.
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, 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.
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.
FCSS community development volunteer co-ordinator Ros Rudd said while it might not sound like a lot it can make all the difference for someone who doesn’t have appropriate winter wear.
“Proper outerwear in our climate is a necessity. People need to go outside to be able to participate in things, enjoy winter and you can’t do that if you are not dressed appropriately,” she said, adding from her understanding it is going to be a colder winter with temperatures in January and February reaching -45 degrees.
She also noted that the need seems to be on the rise. In 2016, FCSS distributed 38 coats. Last year the number rose to 52.
Fortunately, both Lane and Rudd said so far they have always been able to meet the demand.
“People are very generous,” Lane said, adding on average he cleans about 150 coats a year.
Lane added that while the program is primarily for children from newborns to late teens, all sizes of apparel are accepted.
“Which is great because you never know how many people will come in or what sizes you will need, especially for children. Sometimes because of a growth spurt, a child may find itself needing more than one coat,” he said, adding he never turns an item away. “If it is unserviceable, we will find another use for it, such as bringing them to the Bissell Centre or Mustard Seed in Edmonton.”
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 Oct. 30 at the Barrhead and District FCSS building at 5115-45 St.
