Clothe-a-Family Program Gives Access to Warmth this Winter

As the winter season settles across the country, costs rise for most people as they try to stay warm. From high heating bills to new winter wear for children, the additional expenses can be a huge sacrifice for families struggling financially.

For those parents who are forced to make the tough choice between keeping warm or buying groceries, The Salvation Army in Sydney, N.S., is working hard to ensure these families can access essential cold-weather gear.

The Clothe-a-Family program has been running for many years. This seasonal assistance provides participants with coats, hats, mitts, socks and winter boots, when available. All these items are either new or gently used and are offered to those in need at no cost. 

“We try to do what we can to supply the needs of the public.”

“We don’t want to leave people out in the cold, especially during the winter,” Major Joshua Randell explains.

Preparation for this program begins months before the cold sets in. To meet heavy demand, The Salvation Army relies on community support to keep the initiative running strong.

“We wouldn’t be able to provide the basic necessities that families and children are looking for without the support we receive,” Major Joshua adds.

Participants in Clothe-a-Family have accessible options to collect their wear.

“Families can pick their items up at our thrift stores,” Major Pauline Randell says.

In the Sydney area, The Salvation Army operates two thrift stores. These offer clothing at a low cost, but they also serve those on tighter budgets.

“Some families can’t even afford items at the thrift store. We try to do what we can to supply the needs of the public,” Major Joshua says.

“We appreciate every donation we receive.”

Last year, the program assisted up to 250 individuals and families. According to Majors Pauline and Joshua, the need appears to be declining slightly; however, the need remains pressing for those going through challenging times.

“People are very thankful to receive a jacket, a pair of mittens or a hat, whatever it may be,” Major Joshua adds.

While sometimes the item a person requires may not be available, staff at The Salvation Army do whatever is in their power to provide it.

“If someone comes and asks for a jacket of a specific size and we don’t have it, the monetary donations we receive allow us to go out and purchase it for them,” Major Pauline shares. “It feels good to know that we can help.”

Major Joshua agrees with that sentiment and believes that is what The Salvation Army is all about.

“If we’re not reaching out to those outside of our church, what is our purpose?” Major Joshua says. “We appreciate every donation we receive, whether it’s monetary or the actual item.”

By Juan Romero