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Coats for Kids celebrates 20 years of keeping children warm

October 24, 2024   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

During the cold Canadian winter, everyone appreciates the warmth of a nice coat or snowsuit.

CONTACT Community Service’s Coats for Kids initiative aims to make sure everyone who needs a warm winter coat will have one.

For the past 20 years, the Clothes Line store on Victoria Street in Alliston has been collecting new and gently used winter clothing for families in need during the organization’s annual clothing drive.

“It’s more than just providing clothing, it’s about community coming together and caring for one another,” said Brenda Pufek, acting executive director of CONTACT. “We are so fortunate to have such a caring community.”

Donna Ramsay and Ed Chambers have been providing hundreds of these ‘warm hugs’ every year for the past 18 years. When asked why they contribute to this cause, Donna replied, “It’s so important to support this coat drive, especially with the cost of clothing today. It’s one way we can help families.”

Every year, Donna and Ed shop for coats and store them until the Coats for Kids drive starts in October. They arrive at The Clothes Line store with a van full of all sizes of winter clothing and a big smile.

Jackie Curd, manager of The Clothes Line was overwhelmed by the number of coats donated again this year.

“We are so grateful for their generous support, especially as the need continues to grow,” Jackie said.

Volunteers and staff gathered the coats by the armful and brought them into the store where they are sorted and given to those in need.

On Thursday, Oct. 10, the 20th year of this initiative was celebrated with an anniversary cake with volunteers, staff, and shoppers.

CONTACT is still collecting new and gently used winter items. If you would like to contribute, you can drop items off at 55 Victoria Street, West, in Alliston during store hours.

If you are a family in need of warm winterwear for your children or yourself, visit the Clothes Line in Alliston and speak with the staff. 

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