With a nickname like 'Winterpeg', we all know the value of a warm winter coat, boots and mittens during these frigid months. With this in mind, our December Community Initiative of the Month is Koats for Kids.

Koats for Kids, a program of United Way Winnipeg, provides winter gear for little Winnipeggers. Every year, from September to January, Winnipeggers donate over 6,000 coats, and Koats for Kids shares this winter gear with Winnipeg families.

2021 has been a stressful time for our community. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has taken a considerable toll on the health and well-being of Winnipeggers, and many people are experiencing poverty for the first time. Each year, Koats for Kids receives even more requests for gently used winter coats, hats, mitts, scarves, ski pants, and boots. This year, the need has been even greater. They need your help – now more than ever.

Have winter outerwear to share? Donate your new and gently used kid’s winter gear now.

Items Koats for Kids is most in need of right now include: · Boots (all sizes) · Ski pants (all sizes) · Waterproof mittens and gloves · Boys winter coats in sizes 5 to 16 · Winter coats for adults · Scarves

Please make sure items are clean, in good condition, and the zippers work. Please place all items in a plastic bag before bringing them to a Koats for Kids drop-off location which can be found HERE.

Throughout the month of December, a portion of cupcake sales will be donated to Koats for Kids to help them purchase items that they consistently run out of. Purchase your cupcakes at our shops at Academy, Island Lakes or The Forks or through SkipTheDishes and know you're helping keep kids warm this winter.

To learn more about Koats for Kids, including donation locations, visit their website here.