Mikinakoos Coat Drive 2026
Mikinakoos Children's Fund Distributes Record 1,920 Winter Coats to Children in Northern First Nations Communities
Mikinakoos Children's Fund has reached a new milestone with its 2026 Annual Winter Coat Drive, distributing a record-breaking 1,920 new winter coats to children in seven remote First Nations communities across Northern Ontario. This year's total surpasses last year's distribution by more than 600 coats, marking a significant increase in support for children and families preparing for another long northern winter. The record number of coats was made possible through the generosity of donors and the continued support of the Knights of Columbus through its new winter coats program. Their contributions help Mikinakoos provide essential winter clothing to children across the 33 First Nations communities it serves. “Every child deserves to feel warm, comfortable and confident throughout the winter, but access to quality winter clothing can be a challenge for families in remote northern communities,” says Stephanie Paxton, Executive Director of Mikinakoos Children's Fund. “Reaching 1,920 coats this year is an incredible milestone. These coats will help hundreds more children stay warm as temperatures drop, while easing some of the financial pressure on families who are already facing the high cost of everyday essentials in the North.” “As a father and community member, I believe every child deserves a warm coat during a Northern Ontario winter,” says Craig Murphy, Grand Knight, Knights of Columbus Bishop Norman Gallagher Council 7332 in Thunder Bay. “We're proud to partner with Mikinakoos Children's Fund to support children in remote First Nations communities. Thanks to the generosity of fellow Knights, community partners and the Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids matching program, this year's donation reached a record 1,920 coats. It's a great example of what we can accomplish when we come together to support children and families.” The communities receiving coats through this year's programming include Lac Seul FN, Keewaywin FN, Pikangikum FN, Neskantaga FN, Bearskin Lake FN, Sachigo Lake FN, Fort Hope FN and more. Mikinakoos' Warm Clothing Program addresses an ongoing need in communities where access to affordable clothing can be limited and the northern climate makes reliable winter gear essential. For children, a new winter coat means more than protection from the cold. It helps them participate in school, outdoor activities and community life with greater comfort and confidence. This year's record total represents a substantial expansion of the program's reach. By providing hundreds more coats than in previous years, Mikinakoos can support more children who may otherwise go without adequate winter clothing, helping families prepare for the months ahead. Through its Warm Clothing Program and other initiatives, Mikinakoos Children's Fund works to improve the quality of life for First Nations children in remote northwestern Ontario by meeting immediate needs for clothing, food and other basic essentials. Launched in 2009, the Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids program is expected to distribute its 200,000th new winter coat in Canada this year. 2026 marks four years of partnership between KoC and Mikinakoos. |
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