As blisteringly cold weather continues to cut through Northern Manitoba, local members of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) want to remind Thompson residents that their Coats for Kids program is still active until spring.
According to CMHA program co-ordinator Samantha Comeau, they will be accepting any kind of winter outwear throughout this campaign, including jackets, long johns, ski pants, boots, hats and mitts.
“Ten months out of the year it’s very cold, so we just find that it’s a great way to give back to those who help us out and those who help out the community,” she said.
While this program is primarily designed to accommodate children, Comeau also mentioned that they are accepting donations for adults as well.
In some cases, accommodating adults is just as important, since Comeau said they are more likely to try and “tough it out” and not dress properly for the cold.
“So we’re just trying to be proactive in making sure everyone’s nice and warm, especially if they need to be walking long distances in 40 below weather.”
In a follow up email to the Thompson Citizen, Comeau wrote that CMHA has given away five jackets, three pairs of ski pants, one baby suit and numerous gloves, mitts and hats throughout their 2017–18 program.
All donations for this current Coats for Kids campaign can be dropped off and picked up at CHMA’s thrift store, which is located at 43 Fox Bay.
