As the temperatures drop, some local organizations are coming together for a heartfelt cause. The annual Coats for Kids program, a joint effort by Big Brothers Big Sisters and the United Way, is back for another year. 
 
Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Central Plains, Dawn Froese, shares details. 
 
"From October 1st right through to the 31st, we will be collecting gently used winter coats, snow pants, boots, mitts, toques and scarves." Froese explains, "Gently used or brand new, we often have people who just go out and buy a pair of ski pants and bring them in. Those are, of course, welcome as well. We also have women who do some crocheting of toques and mitts, which is great and they're just beautiful." 
 
You can drop your gently used items at these locations: 
 

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters 
  • Family Resource Centre 
  • Pharmasave 
  • Portage la Prairie Regional Library 
  • Stride Place 
  • The United Way in Central Plains 

 
You can also contribute at the Fort La Reine Museum during "Fright at the Museum" on October 27th and 28th. 
 
While it's called "Coats for Kids," they understand that teenagers and adults also need warmth. So, if you're in need, don't hesitate to seek assistance. 
 
Kathryn Dalton, a Community Engagement Coordinator for the United Way, expresses gratitude for the partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters. 
 
"We are really grateful to Dawn for really kicking off this campaign with us this year." Dalton shares, "As our offices have just re-opened, so she took the lead in the organizing piece, but we're very happy to now be working together on this." 
 
Dalton illustrates that the cleaned coats will be distributed from November 8th to 10th at Youth for Christ. Just bring your Manitoba Health Card, and they'll help you find the right fit. 
 
Both Dalton and Froese thanked the community and local organizations for their continued support. You can find more details about drop-off locations and distribution here.