And now thousands of nearly new warm jackets, as well as sportswear - included this year for the first time - are being given out to families who need them most across South Lanarkshire.

Donations were accepted at a variety of supermarkets across the authority during the last two weeks in September. And the teams behind the event have been overwhelmed with the level of support. 

Councillor Katy Loudon, Chair of Education, the lead service for the campaign, said: “The collective efforts of so many people have ensured that more than a thousand children, young people, and adults, including some of the most vulnerable in our communities, are able to benefit from these generous donations.

“We are so very grateful to everyone who took the time to give, and, importantly to those supermarkets who kindly agreed to act as donation centres. 

“Huge thanks are also due to the range of council teams who helped make the 2021 campaign such a success. From the Home+ team who supported the collection and distribution of the clothing, to the Unpaid Work team who laundered every item handed in, and, of course, the Central Equity team who led the campaign and who also sorted and distributed sportswear to 37 educational establishments across South Lanarkshire. 

“The upcycling of good quality jackets, coats and sportswear is a brilliant idea and ensures clothing that others may have outgrown can still be put to good use. It has been a supreme effort that continues to make a genuine difference.” 

Townhill Primary School in Hamilton was the central sorting and distribution centre for the donated items. Head Teacher, Ally McGovern, was ‘more than happy' to allocate the time and space to help those who need it both across South Lanarkshire, and within their own school community.

She added: “The winter clothing campaign has provided our most vulnerable families with practically new warm winter jackets. This initiative has not only ensured children can come to school warm and ready for winter weather but has also taken the pressure off already stretched family budgets, particularly at this time of the year. 

“Most importantly it has also allowed us a school staff to build trusting relationships with our families and support them beyond learning and teaching. We are, as a community, very grateful.”