The Salvation Army Chatham-Kent (CK) has partnered with Free Help CK for an initiative to keep those less fortunate warm this winter.
‘Operation Cover Up’, which focuses on giving out winter coats and other winter wear for free to those who cannot afford it, has had to change locations this year.
The usual pick-up location has been changed to The Salvation Army Thrift Store, while The Salvation Army Church is under construction.
The Salvation Army posted to its social media accounts, advising the location had changed. But concerns have been raised, with people assuming the coat initiative wasn’t happening at all.
Free Help CK stepped up, saying it would have taken the project over to ensure those in need were able to keep warm.
“Times are tough, with food prices and different things like that, so it was important that we made sure if people had extra coats that we could get them to the community,” said Geri Hughson, the Executive Director of Free Help CK. “We had received a lot of calls and emails that it wasn't happening, so it was just a matter of reaching out to the Salvation Army to get the proper wording.”
Both organizations noted that they expect many people to use the program.
“We've already been booking appointments, people coming in getting vouchers for coats, and I think the need is going to be great, and again it's only the end of October, but it's getting colder,” said Salvation Army Lieutenant Jamie Antsey.
The drop-off location remains unchanged, and coats can be donated at the charity's thrift stores and drop-off locations.
“We ask that the coats are gently used, but we just want to make sure that it's in good shape, there are no tears, no holes, and it's clean,” said Antsey.
The Salvation Army’s goal is to have the renovations completed by this time next year, so the coat initiative will go back to being distributed from its church on Orangewood Boulevard.
People in need of a coat can contact The Salvation Army’s Community Services Offices in Wallaceburg, Chatham, or Ridgetown/Blenheim for more information.
