Call for donation of children's coats

Eureka Mums is hoping to collect 200 babies and children’s jackets (sizes one to 10) by the end of July to help ward off winter chills.

Caledonian Primary School parent Jenine Harris helped get the ball rolling by organising a drop-off point at the Thompson Street school.

“We’re hoping to continue to support Eureka Mums as a Brown Hill community,” Ms Harris said.

Eureka Mums founder Erin Malone said people could run a collection at their workplace, childcare centre, kinder or school, with about 30 coats, gloves and scarves already donated since the campaign began last Sunday.

“We all know the Ballarat winter can be bitter, so imagine those families who have to send their kids to day care or school without a coat because they can’t afford one,” Ms Malone said.

“As well as coats and jackets, we will gladly also accept beanies, gumboots, gloves and scarves.

“All donations must be freshly washed, with no holes, rips or bad stains. We take pride in the excellent quality of our clothing, as it uplifts the families we support.”

Parents Place in Norwich Plaza, open from 10am until 2pm daily, is also a drop-off point while donations of coats, linen and clothing can be made at a fundraising barbecue at Masters from 11am until 2pm on Saturday, June 14.

Eureka Mums collects donations of new and pre-loved baby goods and nursery equipment for Ballarat families facing hardship which are distributed through maternal and child health nurses and local welfare agencies.

For more information about the Coats for Kids campaign or Eureka Mums, go to www.eurekamums.org or email donate@eurekamums.org.