Koats for Kids

Koats for Kids is back for another year, helping to get warm coats onto the backs of grateful children.  The fundraiser was started by the late Arni Stephenson, who bravely lost his battle with cancer back in 2004.  Noticing that many local families in his community needed help outfitting their children with cold weather attire, something that is very important when living in our chilly climate, he put together the first Koats for Kids fundraiser.  Now over 15 years later, Arni’s mission to help those less fortunate is just as strong as ever with support from all sides.  From business’s placing donation boxes in their buildings, to residents who fill the boxes, the community love is obvious.

 

Since his passing, the yearly event has been put on by the Whitecourt Rotary Club, whose members generously keep Arni Stephenson’s mission going.  Each year, between 100-200 coats are distributed to local children, helping families immensely as winter jackets are definitely not a small expense.  Just knowing so many parents are breathing a sigh of relief because their children are warm without having to spend money they might not even have, must be an amazing feeling for all involved.

 

Arni’s beloved daughters, Kathy Johnson and Kelly Romanchuk, along with their children, his grandchildren, continue to support the cause each and every year by hanging coats and helping on distribution day.  “We include our kids so they are aware of what their Grandpa started and how important it is to be involved in our community” said Kelly.  “We are so appreciative of the Rotary Club for continuing this year after year” adding that seeing their father’s name as part of the community, means so much.

 

Kathy Lee Munro is the chairperson for Koats for Kids through the Whitecourt Rotary Club.  “I love this event!  When I joined Rotary last year, the area I was drawn towards was community.  I enjoy volunteering and I volunteered at this event last year.  It felt amazing to give back to the residents.  This year, with the economy affecting so many families and the need for winter gear being so high, it felt right to step into the role as chairperson” said Kathy, adding that she hopes to outfit all those in need again this year.

 

Clean coats, winter boots, gloves and toques are easily donated by placing them in collection bins that are conveniently located all over town, including IGA, Oz Media, K & C Graphics, ATB, CIBC, The Co-operators, Royal Bank, Servus Credit Union, Whitecourt Dry Cleaners and the AJMC.  Distribution will take place on November 5th from 10am-3pm inside the Midtown Mall.  Anyone needing more information can contact Kathy Lee Munro at 780-285-0935.