Santa and his elves are expected to visit Bakerview EcoDairy in partnership with Science World to help launch the fifth annual Coats for Kids campaign.
On Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., Santa will be listening to what’s on children’s Christmas wish lists and posing for portraits by Revival Arts with every cash donation going to the Salvation Army.
Lucy Johannsohn, EcoDairy operations and marketing manager, said staff had already been accepting donations in anticipation of the annual coat drive, which will run until Jan. 16 and accepts gently used clothing and blankets to be distributed to vulnerable individuals and families this winter.
“We have already accepted several large bags of clothing from generous donors in recent days and are anticipating this year’s campaign to be the most successful yet,” she said.
“This year we are offering a $2 off coupon to anyone who brings a donation to EcoDairy between now and the end of the campaign. We are also offering a very special $15 family admission rate on launch day to really kick it off.”
The event will also feature games and crafts for kids and complimentary refreshments including hot apple cider, hot chocolate, tea and coffee.
Deb Lowell, Salvation Army public relations director, said winter clothing donations during the Christmas season really do make a difference to those less fortunate in Abbotsford.
“When you donate your gifts of funds or of seasonal appropriate clothing, you are indeed helping us share the ‘warmth’ of the holiday season with those who turn to the Salvation Army for assistance throughout the colder months,” she said.
Donations will be accepted at both EcoDairy (1356 Sumas Way) or at the Abbotsford News (34375 Gladys Ave).
The kick-off event is made possible through EcoDairy’s community partners, The Reach, The Abbotsford News, Nature’s Pickin’s and Revival Arts.