Kozy Kids winter clothing campaign launched in Milton and Halton Region

Winter may be predictable in Halton but steady pay cheques are not always guaranteed, making Kozy Kids – now in its third year – a welcome initiative to help ensure underserved youth across the region are prepared for the cold weather to come.

The initiative was launched in 2021 after two local constables learned that a number of children – many of whom were newcomers to Canada – were regularly absent from school during the winter months as their families couldn’t afford to purchase winter clothing. In Milton alone, 105 students were identified as needing assistance.

Halton residents and business owners stepped up and donated gently-used clothing and financial donations were offered to get the kids kitted up with a snow suit or winter jacket.

“Like many things in life, it’s not until you don’t have something that you truly appreciate it. Snow suits are an essential item for children in our Region.,” said Halton Police Chief Stephen Tanner. “When you donate, you’re not just helping to keep kids warm as they travel to and from school, you’re giving them the opportunity to explore and learn in the great outdoors for what can otherwise be isolating months.”

With more financial donations in hand in 2022 Halton Police ordered new snow suits to-size, clothing 475 youth last year. Rising costs have added to that number for 2023 and Kozy Kids are inviting residents and business owners to purchase a new snow suit (youth sizes 6-16) and drop them into a collection box stationed at Halton Police headquarters and four district police stations.

• 2485 North Service Road West, Oakville (8:00 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• 3800 Constable Henshaw Blvd., Burlington (8 a.m. – 10 p.m.)
• 95 Oak Walk Drive, Oakville (8 a.m. – 10 p.m.)
• 490 Childs Drive, Milton (8 a.m. – 10 p.m.)
• 217 Guelph Street, Georgetown (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

The initiative runs today (November 7) until November 21.

“We’ve seen firsthand the joy and excitement that your donations bring to children in our community,” Tanner said. “On behalf of myself and the entire service, we thank you for warming both the bodies and hearts of those who need us the most.”