As the Stampeders’ official player representatives for The Salvation Army Coat Drive, Brandon Smith and Drew Tate recently warmed the hearts – and bodies – of numerous Calgarians.

The two veteran players spent Tuesday afternoon at The Salvation Army’s Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre to distribute winter coats, many of which were collected at the Stamps’ Sept. 24 home game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

A total of 10 local schools also collected coats throughout the fall to add to the final total of 5,083 for the 2016 edition of the program, which is supported by radio station Q107.

Valley Creek School was able to collect the highest number of winter coats and will receive an exclusive Calgary Stampeders locker-room tour at McMahon Stadium for 50 students in addition a 2016 team-signed jersey.

“Calgarians are very generous people and they provided us with a great amount of donations,” said The Salvation Army’s executive director Karen Livick before graciously thanking the Stampeders for their ongoing support.

Smith and Tate greeted each individual as they entered the room on Tuesday before guiding them through the racks to accumulate items for the men, women and children in their respective families.

Other articles of clothing made available on Tuesday included vests, scarves, hats, gloves, winter pants and even pajamas.

This year’s event marked the eighth year of participation for Smith while Tate has been involved since 2011.

The Salvation Army Coat Drive has now completed its 14th year and gathered more than 24,000 coats for those without the attire necessary for harsh winter weather.

Having opened in 2013, the Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre regularly offers services such as computer literacy and meal planning as well as education and employment preparation programs.

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