Salvation Army in Richmond Hill Prepares Newcomer Families for Winter

As winter approaches, preparing for Canada’s frigid temperatures can be a challenge for newcomers who have never experienced the season.

The Salvation Army in Richmond Hill, Ont., helps new Canadians prepare for the colder months by hosting an annual coat drive.

In partnership with the local Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the initiative has grown over the past several years. What started as a small event now spans several days and collects nearly 2,000 winter jackets.

“Participants left feeling grateful.”

“We have been realizing that this drive is getting big,” says Major Krista Andrews, leader of The Salvation Army’s Richmond Hill Community Church.

St. Vincent de Paul collects donations through its network of Catholic schools and parishes. The Salvation Army receives the coats and volunteers sort and deliver them to those in need.

This year’s distribution took place over three days. To access the program, an appointment is the only requirement..

“Participants left feeling grateful,” Major Krista shares.

The drive was open to everyone, including parents, children, single adults and people experiencing homelessness. The majority of recipients were families who were new to Canada.

“Those of us who live here don’t always realize how hard the cold hits individuals who are just settling into this country,” Major Krista explains. “Our winters are long and challenging, especially for newcomers.”

“We hope that people who came to our coat drive also felt seen, heard and loved.”

As many as 40 Salvation Army volunteers helped make this drive possible. The team included many multilingual members of the church’s English Café group, who facilitated communication with clients and created a welcoming environment.

Major Krista’s goal was not only to provide warmth. She also wanted this initiative to become an opportunity to build new relationships within the community and help guests become more aware of the organization’s work and services.

“We hope that people who came to our coat drive not only received something practical that will keep them warm this winter, but also felt seen, heard and loved,” she adds.

To reinforce this message, volunteers placed encouraging quote cards in every jacket pocket.

“We really wanted it to be more than just a transactional experience,” Major Krista concludes.

By Juan Romero