Local teachers are making sure no one goes cold this winter.

This year marks the 15th annual Coats for Kids Campaign, put on by the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Elementary Association. It is in conjunction with the Thunder Bay Catholic School Board and the Catholic Principals’ Council of Thunder Bay. People interested can visit Victoriaville Mall and while most of the items are for children, adult clothing is available as well.

“It’s really important because we’re sharing, we’re sharing as community members,” says Co-Chair Sarah Polowski. “The pandemic has hit a lot of people hard, and even before the pandemic there was a lot of need in our community. We’re really excited with the generosity of everyone who has donated, and we’re really excited to make connections with anyone who comes to receive coats from us. We’re really hoping to have a good turn out this week.”

If you are interested in helping out, you are still able to donate at Victoriaville Mall. Powlowski says they are not yet sure how many coats were dropped off so far, but says the community has certainly been generous this year.

“No numbers yet, but looks good,” explains Polowski. “Lots of tight racks, lots of hangers used and that’s a good sign for us. We’re really happy with the turnout and we are really happy to share with the people in our community coats and winterwear.”

Coats for Kids runs Saturday Nov. 13, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Monday Nov. 15 to Nov. 20 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.