This month is the time to donate your old coats.
The Greater Vancouver Homebuilders’ Association members have been providing drop-off locations for people to donate lightly used and new coats since 1995, in support of the Lower Mainland and Surrey Christmas Bureaus. This year the campaign runs from Monday, Nov. 14 through to Thursday, Dec. 1, with 48 GVHBA member companies offering 63 drop-off locations across 13 municipalities.
In Maple Ridge that will be at Falcon Homes, at 12011-224th Street from noon to 5 p.m.
More than just keeping a child warm, every coat donated warms the hearts of many people along the way.
“The simple act of donating a coat to keep a child warm connects people contributing to a good cause. You can see the warmth and kindness shared between people as the coats are dropped-off and collected, and I think this is a reaction worth spreading," said GVHBA Chair Darren Cranston.
Last year the response to Coats for Kids saw Lower Mainland residents donated more than 3,000 gently used and new coats, scarves, gloves, blankets, and new toys for distribution to children of all ages.
“This year in particular, we are seeing more demand with the increase in refugees, and migration of workers and their families from Alberta, noting all those in need provide income statements and proof of residency,” said Vancouver Christmas Bureau Executive Director Chris Bayliss.
“The needs are real, and clothing is often overlooked. People think of toys and food around this time of year, but keeping kids warm is an essential need for every parent too; especially during the colder winter months,” he said. "Watching the relief on a parent’s face who finds a size-appropriate coat for their child is a good feeling."
Coats for teens are always in high demand. Even though some teens fit adult sizing, the coats need to appeal their age group (hoodies are always a popular choice). Buying new items for donations is also an option, along with donating scarves, hats, gloves, and new unwrapped toys (hockey sticks, soccer and basketballs, and art supplies are always a hit).