Help keep children warm this winter
Administrator | Sep 14, 2012 | Comments 0
More than 130 children in Prince Edward County were warm last winter, thanks to donations to Adopt-a-Child, a program that provides new winter clothing for children aged 12 and under. This year’s need is expected to be greater.
Sign ups for the program began Thursday and Prince Edward OPP community services officer Kim Guthrie says early indications are showing an increasing need in the County community.
“We’re seeing new people, some with big families and some people who are recently unemployed, or have sickness in the family and they need the help. Some people are feeling embarrassed or ashamed and they shouldn’t. It’s a good feeling to be helping these families.”
Registration for County children is being held at the Picton United Church Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to noon until Sept. 28.
The program is geared toward low-income, working families, in need of assistance and provides new outer wear for children aged 12 and under. Only the custodial parent or guardian may register a child.
“We are a charitable organization that relies on the generous donations from the public,” says Guthrie. “This is our 25th year and once again, our local police agencies (Central Hastings OPP, Napanee OPP, Prince Edward OPP, Stirling-Rawdon Police and the Belleville Police Services) have joined forces with Quinte Broadcasting and an amazing core group of volunteers to ensure that all area children are warm this winter.”
The program started in 1987 and assisted 113 children. Last year, the program helped more than 1,200 children to bundle up.
Clothing distribution dates for successful applicants are set for Nov. 3-4 at the Prince Edward OPP station.
“We usually have a room full of donations by that time and it’s gratifying to see the children come in and pick up their warm coat,” said Guthrie.
Adopt-a-Child will also receive support from the “For the Love of a Song” annual charity variety show to be held at the Maranatha auditorium in Belleville Nov. 23, 24, 30th and Dec. 1.
To make a donation, visit the Prince Edward OPP station on County Road 1, or visit Quinte Broadcasting stations (CJBQ 800, Mix 97.1 and Rock 107.1). Credit card donations can be made by calling 613 969 5555.
Filed Under: Local News
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