WINS Joins Forces with Jacket Racket to Keep Calgary Kids Warm

As temperatures begin to drop and Calgary prepares for another long, cold winter, thousands of children are facing the season without one of the most basic essentials: a warm coat. For many families, especially in challenging economic times, winter gear is a luxury they simply cannot afford. 

That’s where community partnerships step in. This year, the Women in Need Society (WINS) is proud to partner with Jacket Racket, a Calgary initiative that has been changing lives for over three decades. 

A Legacy of Warmth and Care 

For 36 years, Jacket Racket has worked with Calgary schools and volunteers to ensure that children who don’t have proper winter gear receive coats, snow pants, hats, mitts, and other essentials. Each year, more than 2,000 students are identified by teachers as lacking adequate winter clothing. Thanks to the dedication of Jacket Racket’s volunteers, and the generosity of Calgarians, these students can face winter with dignity, comfort, and safety. 

This isn’t just about keeping children warm. When a child can step into their classroom feeling comfortable and confident, they’re better able to learn, connect with peers, and thrive. 

How WINS Is Supporting Jacket Racket 

This year, Women in Need Society (WINS) is stepping in to help make Jacket Racket’s mission possible. This November, Jacket Racket volunteers and organizers will be welcomed into WINS’ 30,000 sq. ft. Donation Centre, where donations will be sorted, organized, and prepared for distribution. WINS is also providing transportation support to ensure the winter gear makes its way to teachers to provide to their students in need.  

This collaboration is not just about logistics, it’s about values. At WINS, we believe that when organizations come together, the impact is multiplied. By sharing resources, expertise, and community connections, we are making sure no child is left behind this winter. 

Why This Matters More Than Ever 

The need has never been greater. Between September 2024 and February 2025, WINS distributed more than 20,000 coats through our thrift stores, with many provided free of charge through our House to Home program .This reflects the growing number of families in Calgary struggling to make ends meet. Rising costs of living, housing pressures, and inflation mean that many parents are forced to make tough choices, between paying rent, buying groceries, or purchasing warm clothing. 

That’s why initiatives like Jacket Racket are critical. By working together, we can reduce that burden and make sure every child can face winter with confidence and warmth. 

How You Can Help 

You can be part of this effort. Every coat, every pair of mitts, and every snow pant makes a difference. Find out more about this initiative https://bit.ly/3K3sYip  

What to Donate: 

• Gently used or new winter jackets, snow pants, gloves, hats, and mitts for children of all ages 

• Adult sizes are especially needed for junior high and high school students 

 Where to Donate: 

• Jacket Racket community drop-off locations →  Jacket Racket Information - Jacket Racket Calgary 

• WINS Thrift Stores + Donation Centre → winsyyc.ca/thrift-stores 

#Together, We Can Keep Calgary Kids Warm 

#Together, everyone WINS