Hundreds of coats given to Saskatoon children in need

Princess Alexandra School was filled with bright, smiling faces Wednesday as hundreds of children received brand new winter coats, hats and mittens.
 
“It’s a great opportunity for kids to pick basically brand new jackets,” said Donna Lariviere, whose two daughters picked a pink one and a flower one. “I’m just so thankful.”

The annual Rock 102 Coats for Kids program has been connecting children in need with warm winter jackets for 13 years.  

“This is one of our favourite charities,” said Derek Watson, Rock 102 morning host. “We take for granted what it means to throw on a winter coat because some can’t afford them. This program allows kids to get one.”

They also partnered with Care and Share, which helps children in need with things like warm coats, breakfast programs and school supplies.

“Kids can’t go to school when it’s super cold out without a coat,” said Sandi Meldrum, Executive Director for Care and Share. “Now they can get to school because of this program.”

More than 1,500 coats lined the gym.

Now community leaders grabbing all the coats to help other kids within other organizations #yxe pic.twitter.com/QasU7jg6A2

— JT Marshall (@jtmarshallCKOM) November 16, 2016

“I got a pink and white coat with secret pockets,” an enthusiastic Daysha Sammy said. “I love it so much.”

Marcella Iron got a brand new Roxy jacket.

“I love coats,” she said. “I’m going to go sledding in mine all the time.”

Look at all the coats going to children in need from @ROCK102TWITS #blessed @CKOMNews #yxe pic.twitter.com/5Sv8s6zH8T

— JT Marshall (@jtmarshallCKOM) November 16, 2016