A new campaign launched just a month ago in the UK aims to keep kids warm this winter - and support recycling too!

The Coats For Kids project was started in the UK in Grimsby by Rai Morgan, but is quickly spreading across the country and has reached Maidstone.

A similar organisation has been long established in the United States.

Mum of two, Louise Hampton of Hillary Road, Maidstone, is the local co-ordinator.

She aims to collect any coats that are no longer needed, perhaps because the child has grown out of them, and then pass them on to any children or families that are in need.

She said: "I work with schools and food banks to help identify any families or children that could benefit from a new or used coat, but I am also very interested in hearing directly from any families out there that would be glad of a donation.

"Also, it goes without saying, I am also always looking for people to donate unwanted coats that other children have maybe grown out of, but still have plenty life left in them - ie the zips work and it provides warmth."

She said: "I work as a childminder in Maidstone and I sometimes see first-hand how parents can struggle with the basics and I want to do what I can.

"Finding money for food and the basic bills is sometimes hard enough so if I can save a family the cost of a new coat by recycling that what others don't need I am happy to play my role.

"I heard a heart breaking story of a child outside playing, shivering, almost crying to his teacher because his zip was broken and he was cold.

"Clearly he needed a new jacket but his mum couldn't afford one.

"Our local community has already been fantastic and dropped of a variety of coats. It has enabled me to, in-turn, give them to children that need them. For whatever someone’s family circumstances, no child should be cold this winter."

The service is completely free.

There are three drop-off points for donations: LouLou's Day Care at 75 Hillary Road, Maidstone; 14 Holmesdale Close, Loose, and 23 Marsham Street, Maidstone (opposite the community support centre.)

To contact Mrs Hampton either to make a donation or request a coat, email coatsforkidskent@outlook.com

Further information here.

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