Uniform Exchange Launches its 2020 Coat Appeal
Huddersfield charity, Uniform Exchange, has issued a plea for the donation of warm winter coats to support vulnerable children across Kirklees as the impact of the pandemic continues to take its toll on local families.
With 15,000 children in education in Kirklees living in poverty, the equivalent of 1 in 3 households, the charity anticipates greater demand for its services with many vulnerable families across Kirklees reaching crisis level as we head into the winter months.
To enable children to access classroom learning during the pandemic, measures introduced in schools include keeping windows open throughout the school day to minimise transmission of the virus, and with temperatures dropping, the need for adequate clothing is even more vital. Having access to a full school uniform and warm coat means a child’s attendance is much more likely to improve and allows them to focus on their learning.
Due to the current lockdown, many drop-off points are inaccessible at the current time, which is why the charity is encouraging schools, workplaces and community groups to organise collections which the charity will then distribute to families across Kirklees.
Kate France, Project Director at Uniform Exchange said; “It’s going to be extremely cold this winter and many children in our community are not ready for it. The past nine years have seen Uniform Exchange collect and distribute school uniform and coats to over 7,000 children in the local community, enabling them to go to school in the right clothing. We want to continue to support these children through these cold months by supplying them with winter coats, gloves, hats, scarves and underwear.
Having your support in these cold winter months will help us ensure all Kirklees children have access to coats and underwear and feel happier to attend school; allowing them to be warm, feel included and are more inclined to learn”.
Kate’s daughter, Laana age 10, added “I am really happy to be back at school, but I am so glad I have a warm coat as the classroom has really started to get cold with all the windows open”.
How to get involved...
…get involved with the Winter Coat Appeal by looking at the items below or get in contact with Kate on 07955 724789 or email info@uniform-exchange.org we truly hope to hear from you.
Donate items...
In order for us to help local children with coats, underwear, shoes and uniform we need a constant supply of donations. If you have any new or preloved items please drop off at one of our donation points.
Donate financially...
If you are able to make a small donation towards underwear or coats we would be truly blessed. There are many hidden costs to running our charity and every amount of help is appreciated.
Match it will be doubling your donation… Let’s do this together!
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Buy wish list items...
We have many items we struggle to get hold of as they get worn out so can’t be reused. Please help us purchase some of these items… especially underwear and gloves, thank you!
Ask for a coat...
If you find yourself struggling to afford new uniform or a winter coat then please get in touch using the request form below and we will make sure you receive the items you need.