Winter Ready: Equipping Every Child for Outdoor Learning & Play

Elizabeth Rummel School Parent Council would like to establish a Winter Ready Gear Bank to ensure that children who do not have adequate winter clothing can fully participate in outdoor learning, outdoor education, physical activity and everyday recess.

We are seeking $10,000 to purchase high-quality winter gear, including winter jackets, snow pants, winter boots, gloves/mittens and toques for children ages 5–10.

At Elizabeth Rummel School, being outside is an important part of children's school experience. During the winter months, however, participation can become difficult when a child does not have warm, properly fitting winter clothing. For families facing financial challenges, purchasing a complete set of winter gear for a growing child can be a significant expense.

Our project will remove that barrier.

Working with school staff, we will discreetly identify students who would benefit from winter gear. Families will not need to publicly identify themselves or explain their circumstances. Instead, the school will provide a simple and respectful way for children to receive the gear they need.

The 2027 funding will establish the initial inventory of the Winter Ready Gear Bank. We anticipate supporting approximately 30 children over the next several years as the inventory is distributed, reused where appropriate, and replenished through future community fundraising and donations.

This is about much more than providing clothing. It is about making sure that every child can go outside, learn, play, explore and participate with their classmates—regardless of their family's ability to purchase winter gear.

The primary beneficiaries will be students ages 5–10 at Elizabeth Rummel School who do not have adequate winter clothing for outdoor activities.

We anticipate that at least 30 children will benefit over the next several years.

The children will benefit by having access to the essential clothing they need to participate comfortably and safely in:

• Outdoor learning activities
• Outdoor education
• Physical education and outdoor physical activity
• School field activities
• Daily recess
• Informal outdoor play and exploration

The program will also provide meaningful support to families. Instead of having to choose between winter necessities and other household expenses, families can access the gear their children need through the school community.

The broader school community benefits as well. When children have appropriate clothing, they can participate alongside their classmates rather than being left out or restricted because they are not adequately equipped for the weather.

We will measure the project's impact by tracking the number of children supported, the number and type of items provided, and the ongoing use and reuse of the gear.