The Rotary Coats for Kids campaign needs extra help to keep local children warm this winter, which is expected to be one of the coldest in 20 years.
"That's why we want to make sure we are ready by having extra (donations)," said Gloria Tom Wing Staudt.
The Rotary Coats for Kids campaign started in 2004. Volunteers collect cash donations and warm, waterproof winter coats (new or gently used and preferably with a hood) for local kids in need. The coats get loaded onto a truck that functions like a mobile dressing room. Children and teens can pick a coat they like and feel proud to wear.
Demand for donations is growing, and volunteers recently ran out of coats and had to use cash donations to buy more.
"We really do need a lot more coats," Tom Wing Staudt said.
Last year, the campaign gave out 1,500 coats. This year, Tom Wing Staudt estimates they need about 1,700.
The campaign runs till Nov. 30, but coats will be available until Dec. 31. Coats can be dropped off at Staples stores and Burnaby MP and MLA offices.
For more collection sites, visit www.burnabymetrotown rotary. org.
