Adopt-A-Child program committee members Stirling-Rawdon Police Service Constable Scott Burke (L), program chair and Belleville Police Det. Constable. Ann Earle-Dempsey (C), and Prince Edward OPP Constable Connor Durkin want to ensure every child in need has a new snowsuit this winter. (Photo: Nicole Kleinsteuber /Quinte News)
Local police departments in partnership with Quinte Broadcasting are teaming up again this year to ensure no child is left out in the cold when it comes to getting a new snowsuit.
At a media kickoff Monday, the Adopt-A-Child program got into high gear.
Now its 29th year, the program that relies solely on community donations provides new snowsuits and boots to children of low income working families as well as those on social assistance in Belleville, Stirling-Rawdon, Centre Hastings, Deseronto and Prince Edward County.
In 2015, 1250 children, newborn to 12 received new snowsuits.
Program chair and Belleville Police Det. Constable. Ann Earle-Dempsey said they are predicting to have over 1,300 area children that will need help given recent layoffs due to local businesses closing.
Earle-Dempsey has been with the program for 22 years and every year she is moved by how thankful the recipients are.
Stirling-Rawdon Police Service Constable Scott Burke has been with the program for 15 years and beamed seeing the children’s faces light up, stating that’s the best part.
Prince Edward OPP Constable Connor Durkin agreed the program is very important given the cold snowy winters in the County.
He says families are always happy and appreciative. Last year 112 were handed out in Picton.
Registration is from September 14-30.
Applicants who want to register their child must provide proof of custody or guardianship.
In Belleville registration is at the Safety Village every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
At the partnering police jurisdictions – Stirling-Rawdon, Central Hastings OPP as well as Prince Edward OPP, registration is Monday September 19 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Applicants will pick up their snowsuits from November 1 to 3 at the Belleville Police Service west garage door from noon to 8 p.m.
Anyone wishing to donate can the Adopt-A-Child hotline at (613)966-0882 ext 4100 or Quinte Broadcasting at (613) 969-5555.
