Paul Kingsmith

news-archive-kody-warm-paws-2013.jpgThe Lethbridge College Kodiaks are on the prowl for new socks, mitts, gloves and other outerwear to help people in need stay warm this winter.

“The students are eager to contribute to the community with this initiative,” says Avery Harrison, the college’s athletic director. “They know it’s important to give back and this is one small way they can work together to do that.”

The Kodiaks will be collecting gear through Dec. 14. All of the donated items will be given to the Wood’s Homes and to the Lethbridge College Daycare and international community. Collection sites will be open on campus in the following locations:

  • Lethbridge College Students’ Association office (CE1350)
  • PE Building Equipment room (PE1408) and Athletics office (PE2411)
  • Bookstore (PA1110)

About one in six people in Lethbridge – approximately 16 per cent – live with a low income and experiences the effects of poverty in their day-to-day lives, according to the City of Lethbridge’s poverty reduction strategy. Poverty not only affects the socio-economic health of the community but it also has an impact on the individual health and well-being of children and families in the community. In 2011, then-Mayor Rajko Dodic noted that one Lethbridge child in five under the age of 15 lives below the poverty line. In 2012, the city’s soup kitchen served 26,462 people with the help of more than 3,000 volunteers.

“This season is difficult for families facing financial struggles,” adds Harrison. “When dollars are tight and the weather is cold, families sometimes have to make hard choices. Our student-athletes want to collect as much gear as possible to give those families a bit more breathing room – and a lot more warmth – this winter.”

For more information, contact:

Avery Harrison
Athletics Manager
Lethbridge College Kodiaks
403-320-6912
403-809-1418