By Melissa Smalley
For Andrew Hofmarks, being a part of Coats for All for the past 10 years is something he's happy to do.
As owner of 100 Mile Laundromat on Birch Avenue, Hofmarks' business becomes the focal point of the important community campaign each November, when upwards of 300 winter coats come through the laundromat to be sorted, cleaned and distributed.
"We're the designated spot where we check if they're clean, and if not, we will do the cleaning for free," Hofmarks says.
"And the coats are for anyone who needs a jacket. You don't have to be on welfare, you don't have to be in need ... we're not going to turn anyone away."
Hofmarks says he's proud to see the response from the community each year when it comes time to donate the gently used winter gear. Volunteers collect so many items that there is always plenty to be donated to those who need it, he adds.
While he admits co-ordinating the heavy volume of coats and accessories can be time consuming, Hofmarks says it's worth it to help those who benefit from the effort.
"It takes some doing, but we don't mind. We're part of the community and this is something we can do to help, and we enjoy it."
Collection of winter coats, snowsuits, toques, mittens and scarves takes place throughout the month of November for the Coats for All project.
Items can be dropped off directly at 100 Mile Laundromat at 4-460 Birch Ave.