YWCA of St. Thomas-Elgin: Return of the Community Coat Drive by Peri Hayes Jackie Anger, former Director of School-Age Childcare at the YWCA of St. Thomas-Elgin, introduces her new role as Manager of Operations with undeniable enthusiasm: “The scope is very rewarding, because I’m able to support the organization in new and diverse ways.” This position of Jackie’s entails supporting YWCA events and fundraising initiatives. The organization is sustaining their momentum from previous years, while celebrating new partnerships with 94.1 myFM and Hometown St. Thomas Magazine for their YWCA Community Coat Drive: “I’m excited to be working with a team of dedicated individuals who care deeply about ensuring no one goes cold this winter.” For this, YWCA provides a collection box to each participating establishment as they accept donations from September 7th until October 2nd. The public are encouraged to donate new or gently used winter coats, gloves, hats and scarves, as well as fresh socks for youth, men and women. Regarding the previous Community Coat Drive, Jackie shares an anecdote about delivering her donation: “I ran into the agency with my own kiddos’ winter back-ups and they were scooped up before they even hit the racks! The need is tremendous, and no one should have to choose between clothing and groceries.” In 2025, YWCA welcomed 578 visitors and gave away 667 coats. Striving for growth and furthering their impact, the goal for this year is to collect 800 coats. As of mid-summer, the following community partners are onboard: All Hands-On Deck Food Drive, Canadale Nurseries, Canadian Tire, Geerlinks Home Hardware, Myrtle, Nurse Next
Door, Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Royal LePage Triland Realty, September Business After 5, STEGH, St. Thomas Early Learning Centre - Elgin Home Childcare, St. Thomas Fire and Police Services, and The Perk. Continuing to expand, Jackie conveys the ways in which this participation is celebrated and deeply appreciated: “The enthusiasm of our community partners is inspiring. Seeing Shawn at Myrtle reply with three exclamation marks and offering a coupon to those who place a donation is a prime example.” “This initiative is about providing dignity to all,” Jackie urges. The YWCA will be hosting their two-day giveaway on October 23rd and 24th, opening their doors to anyone in need throughout St. Thomas- Elgin. Located up the side ramp and into the Commons at 16 Mary Street W, those of all ages are invited to select their choice of coat and accessories. “We do not check ID or income; everyone is accepted!” As Jackie concludes with a smile, “The people who are sup- porting this initiative are so passionate and well-connected; this is an illustration of our special community.” With inquiries, kindly contact Jackie at 519-631-9800 ext.234 or
janger@ywcaste.ca, as well as refer to the ywcaste.ca website for further information.
Hometown St. Thomas • September 2026 • Page 19
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