Now that the winter months are bearing down upon us, big questions might be popping up in the minds of single mothers everywhere. How do I keep the kids warm? How do I save on the electric and gas bill while keeping the house from freezing? My children need coats for winter, new shoes, socks, and all the trappings that keep them warm — where can I find these things? What am I going to do?
There are many resources for clothing and warm coats that your children can benefit from. Here are just a few places to start, and remember, there are probably many more in your area.
- Coats for Kids Programs. Many communities have a “coats for kids” coat drive that takes place in the local churches, schools, community organizations, and the like. People donate coats, the coats are cleaned free of charge by area dry cleaners, and then they are offered for children and needy adults. The usual rule is one coat per person, and they sometimes include gloves, hats, scarves, and the little extras that help on those bitterly cold mornings.
- Local thrift stores. Thrift stores are making good money now that the economy is in bad shape — they are offering great clothes for rock-bottom prices, and suddenly people have discovered just how great they really are! Thrift stores might offer coats and warm clothing at a discount to those who have trouble affording it. In this case, you will need to ask the owner if they offer assistance.
- Helping Hands, Salvation Army, etc. These organizations are dedicated to helping everyone, but they are especially moved by the needs of children and the elderly. Visit the stores and ask about assistance. At the very least, they can offer heavy coats and other warm clothing at rock-bottom prices.
- Freecycle. Visit freecycle.org to find a freecycle group near you, and then post your need for a coat. You might be surprised at how many kind souls step up to the plate to help you out in your time of need!
- Local churches. Many churches will put out the call for help long before the temperatures drop, and more than a few good people will answer. Many churches can help you with coats, shoes, socks, and other clothing for kids that will help out during the winter months.
- School resource centers. The schools care about your kids, and they hate to see them go without. Call the resource center at your child’s school and ask about clothing. Many schools keep a clothing closet just for this purpose, and they will be happy to take your child there to find just what they need for wintertime. But this is a service that might not be advertised all that much, so you might have to ask what the options are!
Your community might have many other places where warm coats and winter shoes are available for a small fee or absolutely free. Start by calling the local churches and let them give you leads. Your kids are worth the time, and you will be so happy to know they are toasty warm during the harshest of the winter months!
