Red Deerians showed their generosity this weekend by helping kids keep warm this winter.
Central Alberta Crime Prevention Centre and Red Deer RCMP teamed up for their third annual Charity Check Stop on Saturday.
They collected over 115 coats and about 150 additional winter clothing items, part of the Coats for Kids program. Jessica Bernard, program development, Central Alberta Crime Prevention Centre, said it’s great seeing cars line up to support the cause.
“People’s trunks seem to be always loaded. We’re absolutely overwhelmed with the support. Whether it’s clearing out the change in your console or donating items, every little bit counts. It’s wonderful to see,” said Bernard.
With the recent cold spell, Bernard said there is no better time to start preparing for the winter.
“It’s going to be a cold winter. This was a reminder that there are a lot of unfortunate people in town and this a great way to give back to people in need. Instead of people throwing out their old winter coats they bring them here, “said Bernard.
Janean Kehler tries to get out each year to donate and this year she dropped off a couple of warm pieces of clothing.
“It’s an excellent way to give back to the community and keep everybody taken are of. It’s a blessing to those around us. It’s a great cause and I’m happy to be a part of it,” said Kehler.
Once the clothes are collected, they’ll be washed and distributed by the Red Deer Christmas Bureau.
Cash donations were also accepted at the Charity Check Stop and will go to the Crime Prevention Centre.
“Donations help support the local crime prevention programs that we have in the community, helping residents connect with resources and help give them the tools they need to build and maintain safe communities,” said Bernard.
The amount of money collected will be tallied early this week.
The Crime Prevention Centre will host a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) training course on Nov.22-23.
CPTED is a certification level course open to residents that teach people how to create an effective use of physical space to reduce in both criminal incidents and fear of crime.
For more information visist www. cacpc.ca.
jonathan.guignard@www.reddeeradvocate.com