The unique drive-thru event, organized by United Way’s GenNext Council, will see volunteers provide drive-thru window service to accept donations of winter boots from vehicles and hand out free treats and coffee courtesy of Jonnies Sticky Buns and Grace Cafe. Walk-up donations are also welcome.
Donations will be accepted on Wed. Jan 13 from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the United Way parking lot at 580 Main Street (Main and Alexander entrance).
Drivers are asked to enter the parking lot at the Alexander Avenue entrance and to bring new or gently-used winter boots for donation. Cash donations for Koats for Kids will also be accepted.
“The weather has now turned cold and kids are back in school. We want them to stay safe and warm,” said GenNext Council Vice Chair Jane Helbrecht.
“A drive-thru is a fun and easy way for generous Winnipeggers to show they care, and as far as we know it’s never been done before!”
Donna Albak, Koats for Kids program manager, said with the arrival of refugees to Winnipeg, she has received requests for winter outerwear and is preparing to meet the demand.
Like all children, the newcomers will need boots to stay safe and warm in Winnipeg’s frigid temperatures.
“Koats provides full sets of winter gear to kids in need, including boots. Anyone who’s experienced cold toes will appreciate how important boots are, especially for children,” Albak said.
Full details for the Drive-thru Boot Drive are at unitedwaywinnipeg.ca/tag/boots
