October was the collection month for Coats for Kids, a joint charity program from United Way in Central Plains and Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Now that the first phase is over, the organizations behind the scenes are shifting focus to the distribution process.

Kathryn Dalton, a Community Engagement Coordinator for United Way in Central Plains, says the changes in United Way doesn't affect community backing.

"United Way might look a little different this year, but the support has been the same," Dalton explains. "I would say it's been an incredible outreach by the community, going to all our drop off locations. We might have even heard we've hit record numbers, but we can't confirm nor deny yet." 

After all the winter gear has been collected, they are handed off to Visions of Independence, to be cleaned and sorted at the Manitoba Development Centre (MDC). With Visions of Independence and the MDC opening their doors and offering services to help. Megan Romphf, another Community Engagement Coordinator for United Way, speaks to the program.

"Our community partners really have brought everything to the table," Romphf shares. "This community always shows up for its organizations, and this is just one more way of showing that it's showing up again for everyone in need."

Dalton and Romphf explained the distribution will take place at the Youth for Christ building from November 8th until the 10th, running from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. They also remind those who are coming to collect winter gear need to come through the back entrance of the building, and make sure to bring their Manitoba Health Card. With temperatures dropping as they are, those in need of warmth this winter should plan accordingly. 

 

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