It’s that time of year again where the air begins to get cooler and it’s time to dust off the old winter coat. Thankfully, Lacombe and District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) will be making sure everyone stays warm with their New Coats for Kids program.

“The new coats for kids program for. The new coats for kids program is for families who have children who are in need of good quality, well-fitting winter wear,” explained Special Projects and Volunteer coordinator for the Lacombe FCSS, Jan Pocock.

Families can apply for the program online or by calling the FCSS at 403-782-6637 and even the FCSS in your own community. You can apply for the program until March. Typically, the program ends

“We give families a certificate so that they can go and purchase one to wear that fits their child. That's the most important part we want this to be high quality, well fitting, and appropriate to wear for kids,” said Pocock.

She believes having the right winter wear is also a confidence boost for the kids.

“It's absolutely important if you have a coat that you like that you are proud of and that you feel good in. You’re way more likely to wear it but also be more confident in it and therefore, go outside, play at recess, and just be more successful all around,” said Pocock.

Additionally, people can purchase other winter wear such as snow pants, mittens, hats and gloves with the certificate they’re given. They can also budget their certificate to include a couple of items if they require it. Last winter, the program helped 65 children, purchased 33 coats, 2 pairs of snow pants or snow suits, 14 pairs of winter boots, 9 pairs of mittens, 7 toques, and 4 pairs of socks.

For more information on Coats for Kids, you can click here. You are also welcome to donate money in support of the program.