Winter coats to help keep people warm this winter are being collected again.
See: Operation Warmth providing free winter clothing since 1995
Rev. Gerry Slote of the Redeemer Lutheran Church told CKAT that donations can be dropped off at the Church on the corner of Ferguson and Second Avenue.
Slote and his team of volunteers provide free winter coats, boots and accessories to people who might otherwise have to struggle through the harsh cold of winter without adequate clothing. Over 2,000 coats get distributed annually.
And it's just not coats that are being accepted.
"Coats, hats, sweaters, mitts. Anything that keeps people warm. We get blankets, pillows and sleeping bags. We get all sorts of clothing," he says.
Distribution of the donations will take place throughout November from the 4th to the 29th and donations are being accepted until the middle of next month.
Rev. Slote says usually they get about 2,000 items donated a year.
"We're seeing everyone from infants to seniors. There are a lot of families coming in here. Everything costs more, so this helps them stretch the budget. They can come and get what they need, and hopefully, it helps them out in other areas."
The project receives the odd cash donation which is put to good use.
Clothing must be in good condition, clean, without any stains, rips or holes, missing buttons or broken zippers.
"You bring them in, and we'll find them a home," said Slote
He also says there have been reports of someone going into the donation box outside the church late at night.
"We've been asking people to put your donation in before 7 p.m. as we make sure the bin is empty all night long so that would stop that nonsense. It's pretty well worked so far," Rev. Slote says.
