Winter is closing in on New Brunswick and local nonprofits face a massive challenge. The cost of living continues to climb. Families struggle to pay daily bills. Now a major winter clothing drive has shut down leaving a significant gap for those who need warm coats.

According to a recent report from CTV News Atlantic the demand for winter gear is higher than ever.

A Major Program Ends

For years Moncton Headstart ran the Coats for Kids program. Last winter marked its final season. The organization collected 450 coats last year which is a sharp drop from the 1000 coats they gathered in previous seasons.

Executive director Caroline Donelle explained the decision to CTV News. She noted that winter wear donations declined while demand rose. Her small staff lacks the budget and capacity to run both the coat drive and their toy program consecutively.

Children enrolled directly at Moncton Headstart still receive a new snowsuit. However the broader community distribution has stopped.

Local Groups Feel the Pressure

This closure puts immense pressure on other local organizations. Amanda Pooley runs What Kids Need Moncton out of a former school basement in Riverview. Her team collects and distributes clothing for young families.

“Everybody is hurting right now” Pooley said. “The cost of living continues to go up and you can barely pay your daily bills. How are you supposed to pay for the extra stuff like snowsuits or school supplies or Christmas?”

Pooley noted that the burden has shifted entirely to her group and a few others. “It kind of has all fallen on us and we’re doing our best and trying to get the word out there that we’re collecting so we can keep our rack full and help as many families as we possibly can” she added.

Community Members Step Up

Other community leaders also work hard to keep New Brunswickers warm.

Tammy Daigle is the tenant service housing manager for the United Way of Greater Moncton and Southeast New Brunswick. She collects coats and sleeping bags for the chronically homeless. Daigle called the end of the Headstart program a huge void for the region.

The Knights of Columbus also shifted their strategy. Norman Gallant said they now purchase 48 brand new coats a year and give them to the YWCA for distribution. “They go like wildfire” Gallant noted.

Individual citizens like Caroline McGraw run their own clothing drives. She collects gently used items and donates them to local schools. McGraw offers a simple tip for anyone looking to donate this year. Make sure your items are clean and in good shape. “If you have pets please keep the pet hair at home” she said.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Coats for Kids program end?

Moncton Headstart ended the program because donations declined while demand increased. The organization lacked the budget and staff capacity to run multiple charity drives consecutively.

Where do I donate winter coats in New Brunswick?

You donate to organizations like What Kids Need Moncton the YWCA or local community drives. Always check with the specific organization for their current drop off locations and hours.

What condition must donated coats be in?

Donated items must be clean and in good condition. Ensure zippers work and there are no rips. Remove all pet hair before dropping off your donations.