Huge response to Darlington 'Coats for Christmas' campaign

There had been a worrying shortage of coats, hats and gloves but the people of Darlington have come together to help with donations.

One woman has knitted a selection of hats to help out after seeing the appeal.

The campaign is supporting Darlington Cares as their shop deals with unprecedented demand for winter coats, hats, scarves and gloves as the cost of living crisis continues and families are struggling more than ever. 

Chelsea Johnson, programme officer for Darlington Cares, said: "Yes we have had lots of coat, hat and glove donations.

"A lady has knitted a selection of hats, on Monday we received 24 pairs of gloves and 16 hats!"

Here are the items that the shop is in need of:

• Winter Coats (from pre-school age to school leavers) Adult sizes are accepted but they must be suitable for children to wear.
• Walking Boots 
• Wellies
• Gloves 
• Scarves
• Hats

One of the volunteers in the shop, in Queen's Arcade in Darlington, Kay Sandham said: "We are here for everybody.

"You bring your old stuff and leave with freshly laundered new clothes ready to go."

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Here's how you can make a difference. If you or anyone you know has anything that they can donate, you can do so at the donation points below:

School Uniform Scheme, Queen Street (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9-12pm. Thursday 12-3pm)

Cockerton Club (Donation Box)

Firthmoor Community Centre

Eastbourne Park Community Hub

Queen Street Arcade (Donation Box)

In A Spin Laundry Services

Businesses who want to get involved with setting up staff collection points or become an official venue for a public collection point can contact Chelsea who will provide donation boxes.