The calendar says that it’s still summer, but Old Man Winter is right around the corner, and that means it’s nearly time for the annual Coats for Kids Campaign. The Salvation Army’s Lisa Graham is ready.
It’s year 32 for the program, and like most grand ventures that succeed, it began with a simple observation and grew from there.
Lisa is the manager of the Port Hope and Brighton offices of The Salvation Army, and she says there are usually enough coats to provide for some of the smaller local communities outside the Port Hope, Cobourg and Brighton corridor.
Unfortunately, the need for coats is growing every year as the cost of living rises across the board. But Lisa is always hopeful that one day there might not be the same level of need they have seen and continue to see.
In the first year of the program, 75 coats were distributed. Last year, more than 600 coats were given out.
Graham points out that coats are also given to adults where needed, which is another area where there is a growing need for donated coats.
Boots, hats, mitts and scarves are also in great need and will never be turned down.
If you wish to donate in person, Lisa has office hours in Port Hope and Cobourg on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and she is in the Brighton office Thursday afternoons.
For anyone with mobility issues, pickup can also be arranged.
The coats are generally ready for distribution right around Thanksgiving, and Graham also stresses that financial donations are always welcome throughout the year.
Let’s help keep kids warm this winter!
(Written By: Richard Evans)
