Mission, Giant Tiger team up for Boots 4 Kids
Winter weather will soon descend upon Niagara, and with it the need for families to clad their children’s feet in warm and weatherproof boots before sending them off to school or out to play.
It’s an annual cost — kids’ feet have a way of growing year after year — that for some families stretches already thin budgets.
A continuing partnership between Open Arms Mission and Giant Tiger Welland is continuing its 15-year tradition in providing some assistance. Every year, in the month of November, the Welland retailer holds its Boots 4 Kids drive, inviting customers to make a $2 donation at checkout, with the money purchasing boots distributed through the mission to families in need.
“Last year we were able to give out 300 pairs,” said Open Arms Mission assistant chaplain Carol Hand while noting the social support agency has seen an uptick in demand with increasing costs of living.
“With rent prices and food prices going up more families are in need,” she said.
“Without Giant Tiger’s partnership, this program would not be able to happen.”
Last year store patrons contributed $5,173 to the campaign . Owner Wayne Zatorski is hoping for a repeat. Every $2 donation will see the customer’s name entered into a raffle for a new Hoover multi-floor vacuum donated by the store.
“It’s great opportunity for us to give back,” said Zatorski,.
He said the real thanks is owed to the customers who donate annually. Boots 4 Kids runs at the Fitch Street store until Dec. 1.