As Canadians continue to cope with inflation, winter outerwear essentials can represent a difficult decision for many families. Knowing this reality exists in our community, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) launched its annual Winter Outerwear Drive in October to keep our students warm during the winter so they can concentrate on learning.
This year’s drive saw an increase in demand for winter outerwear. Thanks to a generous donation of 6,100 coats valued at $360,000 by Operation Warm, a TDSB partner and US-based non-profit organization, the TDSB was able to answer the call and meet the needs of students in Model Schools for Inner Cities (MSIC).
MSICs are committed to ensuring that every student succeeds academically and develops a positive sense of well-being; and that every family and community has access to opportunities and social supports.
“The TDSB was grateful to receive a recent donation of 6,100 new, high-quality coats for students from our partner Operation Warm,” said TDSB Director of Education Colleen Russell-Rawlins. “These coats will support student well-being, attendance at school, and comfortable participation in winter activities. Thank you!”
Since 2021, Operation Warm has made a difference in the lives of over 8,300 students. As we continue to grow our partnership, we look forward to collectively breaking down barriers to students’ learning so that we can ensure more students feel a sense of well-being to focus on achievement in and out of the classroom.
We’d like to extend an additional thank you to FedEx, who graciously delivered the coats directly to TDSB schools and into the hands of families that need them most.
Note: Students and families in need of winter outerwear are asked to contact their school principal to make a request.
From L-R: Pina Starnino (Board of Director, Operation Warm), TDSB Director Colleen Russell-Rawlins, Lily Szeto (Manager, TDSB Educational and Business Partnerships), Garry Green (Sr. Manager, TDSB Business, Community Services and Student Transportation Services), Karlo Cabrera (TDSB Centrally Assigned Principal, Model Schools for Inner Cities)