Raincoats for Kids. 
Low decile schools report high rates of absence in winter as many children simply do not own a raincoat. KidsCan provides thousands of free All Blacks raincoats to children from low income families each year, ensuring they arrive at school warm, dry and in a better position to learn. So far 50,000 children in 207 low decile schools around the country have benefited from the programme.
In 2007 Professor Mike O’Brien, who teaches and researches social policy at Massey’s School of Social and Cultural Studies evaluated the programme and found giving raincoats to children at low decile schools has done more than simply keep kids dry – it has boosted their self-esteem, pride in their school and attendance in the process. The children’s care of their raincoats amazed teachers. Generally staff members spend a lot of time picking up discarded and lost clothing items and attempting to find the owners. However, this simply did not happen with the raincoats. It is rare for one to become separated from its owner.
The coats have made a huge impact on some of the most deprived children. Less privileged kids guard them like gold and many children wear their coat everyday rain or shine. The coats also cover clothing that is worn out or perished or filthy which makes children feel good about being equal to their peers.
The raincoat is made in a lightweight synthetic material and is convenient to carry in a school bag. It was designed and made by adidas and the iconic adidas brand is clearly displayed on the front and the back of the jacket. KidsCan also successfully secured the endorsement of the New Zealand Rugby Union. As a result the All Blacks brand is emblazoned on the front of the jacket.
A big thank you to our Raincoats for Kids partners:
