In her fourth year collecting winter coats for needy children in the Highlands School District, parent Christina Faltot said the effort fell just short of amazing.
“We received lots of donations but not enough for the number of kids in need,” Faltot said.
The effort, called Winter Ready Rams, brought in about 300 coats since October. They were doled out to students in kindergarten through high school. Middle school Principal Becky Bragan said clothes were displayed during parent-teacher conferences so families could discreetly peruse sizes and styles.
“We were able to distribute almost all the coats that were given to us,” Bragan said.
But Faltot said there still is a need for primary and elementary sizes.
She will continue to accept coats and hoodies at her home at 200 Banbury Lane in Harrison to ensure every child stays warm this winter.
According to advocacy group One Warm Coat, one in six children in the country lives in poverty and struggles to afford basic necessities.
Children are not able to regulate their body temperature as readily as adults and can more quickly develop frostbite without warm clothes, the group says. Exposure to the cold also predisposes children to illnesses such as pneumonia.
Highlands Elementary Principal Stan Whiteman said he is thankful for the help for his students.
The school stocks a small RAMS Den in the nurse’s office, where kids can receive clothes and toiletries, but, Whiteman said, “We certainly have a need each year for coats and backpacks.”
In total, Faltot said the donation drive brought in about 150 coats for children in kindergarten through third grade. The rest were sized for older students.
“Our community is being hit hard this year, and I hope we can help just a few more families stay warm,” she said.
Over the past four years, Winter Ready Rams has brought in more than 900 coats, along with other cold-weather gear.
At the high school, Principal Mike Toole said a large room is dedicated to providing students with clothes and other accessories for free.
He said the most sought-after items are hoodies and jackets.
“We appreciate any and all donations,” he said.
