Coats for Kids passes 1 million donated coats

The Knights of Columbus (K of C) recently passed an impressive milestone in their charitable giving—they have given 1 million coats to children in need through their Coats for Kids program!

Started in 2009, Coats for Kids gives new winter jackets to children whose families struggle to purchase appropriate winter wear. K of C councils across Canada and the United States participate in the program, including several councils in Saskatchewan that have given tens-of-thousands of coats over the years.

Allan Ronellenfitsch, of Saskatoon's Denis Mahoney Council #8215, said they have been involved almost since the inception of the program. "Ten years ago, I was given the job to drop off our coats and we chose to partner with the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools. It has been my pleasure to make the delivery over the years and will continue in the future. We have certainly seen the need in the community especially with so many new families from all parts of the world that may not be equipped for our climate."

As Saskatchewan's population grows, so does the need. Ronellenfitsch stated the Knights are able to supply 6,000 coats this year. Still, that doesn't meet the demand of 8,000 coats.

"On behalf of our division and the students we serve, I’m very grateful for the ongoing support of the Saskatchewan Knights of Columbus,” said Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools' Director of Education François Rivard.

To learn more about Coats for Kids and support the initiative, visit the Saskatchewan Knights of Columbus Charitable Foundation's website.

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic fraternal organization started by a young priest, Blessed Michael McGivney, in the 1882 to take care of widows and orphaned children of his parish and now has councils around the world. In 2022, Knights around the world donated approximately 50 million service hours and nearly $185 million for worthy causes in their communities.