Submitted Photo Holding coats collected in a coat drive for children are, from left, Aspire staff Christy Wald, Alissa Mack, Marisa Kaasa, Jamie Swenson of Minot Public School Foundation, and Aspire staff Kevin Vigested, Beth Nelson, Tonya Harden, Brianna Weeks and Rianne Kuhn.

In response to the needs of many local children for adequate winter clothing, Aspire Credit Union recently provided a $1,200 donation of thermal gloves, knit hats, jackets, and snowpants to the Minot Public School Foundation (MPSF). The donation is aimed at ensuring no child in the community has to face the elements without the proper winter protection, a news release from the credit union stated.

As temperatures plummeted this winter, the School Foundation received numerous reports from counselors, teachers and staff about children requiring winter gear to wear during outdoor activities and their commute to and from school.

“We know that winter can be particularly harsh for families facing economic hardships, and we’re proud to be a part of making sure these kids can focus on their education without worrying about being cold,” said Rianne Kuhn, Marketing Communications coordinator at Aspire Credit Union, in the news release.

The MPSF has already begun distributing the gear to students in need and plans to continue ensuring that all students have access to the essentials.

“The MPSF is thankful for Aspire Credit Union’s continued support, this time through their generous donation towards our Winter Gear drive,” said Jamie Swensen, executive director of the MPSF. “This thoughtful gift will have an immediate impact for our students who are in need of warm winter clothes. When students have the proper winter gear for our climate, the distraction and discomfort of not having what they need is gone and the students can focus on their learning.”

The MPSF continues to welcome additional contributions from local businesses and community members to further support the needs of local children.