A pair of New Westminster businesses have their doors open until Dec. 6 to accept clothing and toy donations for a holiday drive.
The Coats for Kids campaign that's organized by Homebuilders Association Vancouver (HAVAN) launched on Monday, Nov. 6, to help the Lower Mainland and Surrey Christmas bureaus.
A total of 72 HAVAN member companies have provided 82 drop-off locations across 14 municipalities in Metro Vancouver for the public to donate new and gently used:
- coats
- scarves
- gloves
- blankets
New unwrapped toys and gifts for children will also be accepted.
"The temperature has dropped, and with fresh snow already on the local mountains, we need to ensure our kids are dressed appropriately for the season ahead," said HAVAN CEO Ron Rapp in a news release.
Lisa Werring, the executive director of the Surrey Christmas Bureau, said rising inflation is impacting vulnerable and low-income families in the region.
And her organization is bracing for a sharp uptick in requests for help this holiday season.
"In addition to outwear, we very much need new toys for all ages as well as support for our hamper program, which provides families with grocery vouchers for those all-important Christmas meals," she stated in the release.
"Last year this program provided over 21,000 meals to families in need, a number anticipated to rise to over 22,000 meals this year."
How you can help
Here’s where you can drop off clothing and toys in New Westminster:
- Rembrandt Renovations Ltd. (222 Churchill Ave.)
- Griff Building Supplies (340 Ewen Ave.)
