With a little taste of frost this week, Cochranites were reminded of what’s just around the corner, as they pulled out the fall and winter jackets for the first time, which makes it the perfect time for Cochrane’s annual Jacket Racket.
The free community event aims to alleviate the costs associated with seasonal apparel by providing a selection of gently used winter wear for all ages.
Between October 2 and 16, Town of Cochrane, Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) and the Family Resource Network (FRN) will be collecting donations of gently used winter clothing and Halloween costumes.
The event might be particularly useful for new residents form other parts of the world with ‘non-Canadian’ winters.
Interested residents can drop off their clothing items for donation at one of the nine convenient donation bins located throughout Cochrane: BGC Cochrane; Bow Valley Credit Union; Cochrane Alliance Church; Cochrane RancheHouse; Cochrane Safeway; Family & Community Support Services (FCSS); Family Resource Network (FRN); SLS Centre, and Bragg Creek Community Centre.
"In these times of rising living costs, the Jacket Racket event is more important than ever. Over the past two years the number of residents who rely on this program has increased by 72 per cent," said Kim Krawec, Manager of Family and Community Support Services, Town of Cochrane.
“Donations of jackets, hats, scarves, mittens, gloves, snowsuits and boots of all sizes will make a real difference and ensure that everyone in our community stays warm and safe this winter."
Youth jackets and coats are always in high demand, Krawec said.
This year’s Jacket Racket event will take place on Saturday, October 19, from 10 am to 12 pm, at the Cochrane Alliance Church, 902 Glenbow Drive. Cochrane and area residents can shop for free, gently used winter wear and a selection of donated costumes just in time for Halloween.
Kathleen Dennis, FCSS support worker encourages people to come to the event as opposed to maybe waiting to see what’s left.
“We really encourage people to try to come out to the event because that's going to have the largest selection of jackets available," Dennis said. "If they miss the event, they're welcome to come to FCSS and FRN after the 19th and we will do our best but the event itself is the best way to make sure that you're getting the right size and type of jacket that you're looking for.”
For more information, visit Cochrane.ca/jacketracket.