For a kid, a coat is more than just a piece of clothing

United Way's Koats for Kids program is now closed until Fall 2010.

Thank you to everyone who donated winter outerwear or volunteered time to make this past winter a warm one for thousands of local children and youth.

We'll be back in action even earlier next year! Koats for Kids will reopen in September 2010.

Thanks again. Have a great spring and summer!

Since 1989, Koats for Kids has collected and distributed more than 136 000 coats, ski pants, hats, scarves, mittens and boots to thousands of families throughout the city.

Koats for Kids is a partnership between United Way of Winnipeg, CTV, Winnipeg Sun, 1290 CFRW, Perth's, Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service and AMJ Campbell Van Lines.

Q. When does the program run?

A. Koats for Kids is a seasonal program that runs from October through February.

Q. How many requests does the program receive each year?

A. On average, we receive approximately 10 000 requests for winter outerwear each year.

Q. Can I volunteer for Koats for Kids?

A. Yes, we are always looking for people to help out at the Koats for Kids Volunteer Centre. You can volunteer as an individual or as part of a workplace, school or community group. To volunteer please contact Donna Albak at 586 KOAT(5628) or email koats[at]UnitedWayWinnipeg.mb.ca

Q. I would like to organize a coat drive at my school or workplace. How do I get started?

A. Thank you! Please call Adrienne Silver at 477 5360 for information.

Q. Can I donate items other than coats?

A. Yes, we are also looking for donations of ski pants, hats, scarves, mittens and boots only.

Q. Do you accept larger sizes?

A. We accept all sizes of winter outerwear for infants and children. The largest size we will accept is a size 16 or youth large. Our highest demand is for boys and girls sizes 5 - 14.

Q. Our school/community group has completed a coat drive. Where can we drop off larger donations?

A. Please drop off larger donations at AMJ Campbell Van Lines at 12-1333 Niakwa Road, Monday to Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm.

Q. Where can I drop off my donation?

A. Donations of good quality winter outerwear can be dropped off at any Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Station or Perth's location.

Q. How can I obtain winter outerwear for my children through the Koats for Kids program?

A. Distribution is coordinated through elementary schools, daycares and United Way agency partners throughout Winnipeg. Check with your child's school or daycare, or call 586 KOAT(5628).

Q. Can I go straight to the Koats for Kids Volunteer Centre to collect my coat(s)?

A. The Koats for Kids Volunteer Centre is for sorting and cleaning. Winter outerwear can be collected from participating schools, daycares and United Way agency partners. Visit the United Way for a list of all our agency partners.

Q. What if the coats aren't clean?

A. We ask that donations of winter outerwear be clean, gently used and in good condition. Zippers must be in working order. Outerwear in need of dry cleaning will be taken to Perth's.

Q. Where is the clothing stored?

A. Winter outerwear is stored at United Way's Koats for Kids Volunteer Centre, located at 3172 Portage Ave. A special thanks to the City of Winnipeg for leasing space to United Way for just $1 per year.

Q. What is United Way's role in the program?

A. As part of United Way's commitment to helping children and youth achieve their potential, Koats for Kids is designed to warm kids up for success in school and life. Each year, United Way brings together the partners, volunteers and resources required to coordinate and promote the program. We also provide funding to staff the Koats for Kids Volunteer Centre for approximately 25 weeks.