As the cold weather slowly approaches, United Way in Morden is ready for another year of Koats for Kids. The program allows people to donate gently used or new coats to people in the community who may not be able to afford coats for their children.

Behind the Morden Fire Hall, there is a red bin where coats can be dropped off, and a number of coats are already there waiting for a new home.

"Initially when I got involved with United Way I wasn't sure about the program and I ended up volunteering to work at some of the sessions. I was quite surprised at the number of people that turned up, many of them families with five or six kids," says Audrey Armstrong, a board member.

She notes, it can be difficult for families living on one income to pay for new winter wear, which can include snowsuits, snow pants, hats, and mittens.

"Kids grow so quickly that every season they're needing something new, so we really like to get kids stuff," says Armstrong.

Andrew Plett is also on the board, and says, "upwards to just under 100" coats are donated every year.

Armstrong adds, there are often new families moving to the area who are unprepared for how cold the winter can be, or have many children to supply coats for.

This year there will be three pick-up days starting with Thursday, Nov. 13, followed by Tuesday, Nov. 20, and Thursday, Nov. 22.

As always, donations will continue to be accepted, including coats and winter gear for teens and adults.