Largest Ever Clothing Giveaway Hopes To Spur Outdoor Play

Playtime is normally done inside during winter months but on Thursday, the kids at Action for a Better Community's head start program headed outside for playtime, and to receive a special purple gift.

"Anytime we have the opportunity in this community to reach out and touch kids in a positive way, of course that feels wonderful," said John Urban of the Greater Rochester Health Foundation.

The GRHF gave away more than 18,000 hats and mittens in whats being dubbed the biggest clothing giveaway in Rochester's history. It's part of the organization's goal of fighting obesity.

"A big part of that is having physical activity even during the winter, when we think its too cold to be outside," said Urban. "A healthy kid is more likely to learn and is more likely to be a healthy adult."

The organization teamed up with several organizations including ABC's head start program to distribute the clothing.

"Almost all of them are working with us to do something with the kids they work with to encourage them to eat healthy and be physically fit," said Urban.

From these smiles, its easy to see the mittens and hats are a hit.

"I'm gonna take off my gloves and put them back on," said Derek Brooks.

The drive is also providing clothing to School #33 and the Ibero-American Action League Early Childhood Services.