by Jennifer Bowman
Twenty years ago, Paul Coveney and two other firefighters watched as children passed by their station on their way to school every day. Many were underdressed for the cold weather and snow.
Inspired by a program they knew about in Toronto, Coveney started Coats for Kids.
Throughout the year, Quinte West firefighters collect winter clothes from residents and businesses. The clothes are collected in a donated building, and then made available to those in the community who need winter clothing.
It was overwhelming from the beginning, said Coveney.
The program began with people bringing in their used coats, but it’s grown far beyond that.
“In the last 15 years, money has been coming in. We’ve never solicited for money since we started,” said Coveney.
Others knit hats and sweaters, some bring new coats, and businesses donate money or goods.
Coveney said when they get money, he spends it as if it were his own, stretching it as far as possible. Retailers such as Sears and Zellers have come to know him and help him out with deals, he said.
“This year we’ve spent over $16,000 on brand new coats from donations we’ve received from the community, and we’ve saved probably $20,000,” he said.
On Saturday they handed out 400 snowsuits. Coveney said they help about 1,000 people each year.
The program isn’t just for kids, said Coveney. They also provide coats for teens and adults.
“We’ve always dealt with everybody,” he said.
Some people bring back the coats from the previous year, he said. Kids outgrow them. Sometimes they take another coat, sometimes they don’t.
“The only minor rule we have in our program is if you’re there for a new coat, the person that requires the coat has to be with you. We have seen stuff come back from year to year, and it’s nice and clean and ready to go for next year,” he said.
Coveney says their goal is to make sure families are warm for the winter.
Donations can be made at the Quinte West Fire Station One and those who need winter clothing can contact the Quinte West Fire Station.