Salvation Army Gives Coats to People in Need

Male recipient chooses a warm coat in Belleville, Ont.
by SalvationArmy.ca
Categories: Articles, Feature, Mobile, Newswire
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In Canada, one in 10 Canadians lives in poverty. Having a warm coat or providing one for their child is a luxury they simply can’t afford.

In Kitchener, Ont., The Salvation Army holds a coat drive to ensure that vulnerable people are warm, feel healthy and valued. Last year, 8,000 coats were given out.

“After donations of new and gently used coats are collected, people come to our centre and select items,” says Bob Dockeray, case worker at The Salvation Army’s Community & Family Services office. “We’ve heard many stories of people who, because they can’t afford winter wear, are outside in T-shirts and thin sweaters in sub-zero temperatures. It’s sad and scary.”

Some Salvation Army locations work with community partners. In Calgary, the Stampeders are once again teaming up with The Salvation Army to help provide warmth and comfort for the less fortunate. On Saturday, October 31, fans donate new or gently used winter coats. Last year, a record total of 4,600 coats were collected.

Calgary Stampeders partner with The Salvation Army to provide warm coats to vulnerableIn Belleville, Ont., donors are asked to take their gently used winter coats to Parson's Cleaners, Northtown Cleaners or CDL Cleaners, each of whom provides their services free of charge to professionally clean the donated coats.

“We are grateful to each of these partners who are helping us keep people warm again this year,” says Abby Mills, Director of The Salvation Army’s Community & Family Services in Belleville. “Recipients are overwhelmed with gratitude and providing this simple, yet vital, need protects  people’s health year round.”

The Salvation Army anticipates a great need for coats again this year. Thank you to everyone who helps us ensure that anyone who needs a coat is able to receive one.