Scout House donates winter jackets to help homeless

Preston Scout House Band Inc. is supporting the efforts of The Working Centre, a Kitchener-Waterloo social service agency, with the donation of about 40 coats that had been worn by alumni band members during winter parades. The bright red insulated, water-resistant coats featured a crest showing an original Scout House marching member in traditional short black shorts and a large stylized maple leaf. The crests were removed from the donated coats, which had been in storage since the band became inactive following the COVID 19 pandemic restriction on music activities.

The Working Centre is a key part of the social service structure in Kitchener-Waterloo with integrated projects that provide support for those without work or housing, and other vulnerable groups. The agency creates hospitable and welcoming places where people can find belonging, practical supports and ways to contribute to the community. Specific projects include affordable and supportive housing and emergency shelter; employment and financial support; food preparation and distribution; specialized outreach and mobile street outreach projects.

“I just wanted to say a formal ‘Thank you’ to all of the Preston Scout House Band members for the donation of your jackets,” stated administrator Sarah Schaefer. “Every year, there are more folks living on the streets and the need is greater and greater. Your kindness and gift will make sure that a large number of them will be warmer today than they were yesterday. We truly appreciate your donation.”

Preston Scout House Band Inc. is a non-profit corporation with registered charity status able to issue tax receipts to donors, incorporated under the Corporations Act of the Province of Ontario on November 29, 1956. Before the pandemic, the Scout House family included five member groups: Alumni Band, Heritage Drill Team, Silver Leaves Brass, Scout House Cadets drum and bugle corps, Magic of Scout House competitive winter guard.

The current active unit is Silver Leaves Brass, an all-age award-winning ensemble scheduled to appear in about 15 area parades and concerts in Waterloo Region and beyond this year.

For more information about Preston Scout House Band Inc. activities, contact telephone (519) 653-3376, email PSHBAND [dot] INC [at] outlook [dot] com