Share the Warmth Program Prepares Families for Winter

As the leaves start falling and the days get shorter, the temperatures begin to drop. To cope with Canada’s cold winters, we all need to be well-prepared with appropriate winter gear to keep us warm and safe.

Much of this winter gear can be costly and for newcomers or others struggling financially, it may not be possible to afford proper outerwear to brave the cold.

To assist those in need of warm clothing, The Salvation Army’s Kitchener Community Church and Family Care Centre hosts an annual initiative called “Share the Warmth”. This event collects coats, hats, mittens and other winter gear throughout October.

Annual Tradition

This program has been a tradition for many years, with both donations and demand growing each time.

“This event has been going on before my time, actually,” says Sandra Aszmies, director of the Family Care Centre. “We collect applications throughout the month. People who qualify are low-income.”

In 2024, Share the Warmth distributed over 700 coats to people in the community and despite the large number of donations, the demand exceeded the supply.

During October, donations of gently-used winter wear are received and in November, these are distributed to those in need.

Adapting to New Surroundings

According to Sandra, newcomers are usually the most common participants in this program. Many of these families are trying their best to stay afloat financially and many come from countries where they don’t face harsh winter conditions. Share the Warmth helps them save some money and prepare for temperatures they may not have experienced before.

“We support many families. We do have some people who are experiencing homelessness, but it is mostly newcomers who apply,” Sandra adds. “We are seeing more newcomers in the Waterloo region, so the need for winter wear grows in that sense.”

The increased population has played a role in the higher demand, but it’s the financial strain of today’s cost of living that has prompted many to turn to this program.

“We also have a good number of people who have lived here for a long time and just need that extra support,” Sandra shares. “You never know when the temperatures will plummet, so we want to make sure that everyone who needs a coat can get one.”

Community Support

To make this assistance possible, the community plays a big role. Every year, donors showcase their generosity.

“We have a very generous community and we are very thankful for that,” Sandra says.

Those receiving donations are always happy to express their gratitude.

“People are so appreciative of having the option to access Share the Warmth,” Sandra shares.

Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring the program runs smoothly and successfully. Offering time is a meaningful way to contribute to this important initiative.

“We are always looking for volunteers who can help people choose their winter coats, hats or mitts. We want to make sure everyone coming in feels welcome and comfortable,” Sandra explains.

While Share the Warmth relies on a strong partnership between The Salvation Army and the community, its goal remains simple.

“It is nice to be able to see people warm. No one should go cold in the wintertime. You have a better day if you are bundled up and warm,” Sandra adds. 

By Juan Romero