Coats for Kids is a popular program that has benefited many. This annual act of charity goes back three decades and Blaine HS got the ball rolling.
“Blaine was number 1,” said Randy Hemstad who used to teach Bengal students.
Thanks to Business Professionals of America and Hemstad’s vision, Coats for Kids began as a grassroots charity effort in the 1990’s.
Said Hemstad: “We started approximately 30 years ago.”
Soon thereafter Pilgrim Cleaners jumped at the chance to be part of a program that specializes in giving back.
“They were more than excited to have Blaine HS as the very first drop off site for Coats for Kids,” Hemstad said. “In the past it was always at Pilgrim Cleaners.”
Coats in high demand
This year, Hemstad and Blaine students have a lofty goal – they want to collect as many coats as possible.
“Every year they need 10,000 more coats and then 10,000 more,” Hemstad said. “So it’s a never-ending thing. There’s so many people in need that greatly appreciate the coats that are brought into the different sites, including Blaine High School.”
“I know there are a bunch of different people who don’t have coats,” said Blaine student Ethan Asante. “Families who are struggling. Especially in Minnesota. Our homeless rate has increased in the last couple years due to Covid and unemployment.”
“Any and all winter coats are accepted,” Hemstad said.
“It’s a great thing”
It’s almost impossible to fathom going through a frigid Minnesota winter without a coat – but it’s an unfortunate reality.
“It’s sometimes hard for students to believe and understand that someone might not have a coat and is outside,” Hemstad said. “But there is. There’s thousands upon thousands. It’s such a needy program.”
“I think it’s a great thing,” Asante said. “Honestly being able to give something that was once mine to other people who are in need of it, I think that’s just a beautiful thing. It’s a wonderful thing to do.”
The students who are part of Coats for Kids, get to learn about gratitude and they embrace the chance to give back.
“Honestly been one of the most rewarding things that I have been doing in this club,” said Blaine student Sharon Kimaiga. “It’s giving me a chance to give back to my community.”
October 21 is the last day to donate a coat.
