Local Company Helps Elementary Schools | Video

Chris Williams | 2/11/2013

When temperatures get down to 20 and 30 below sweatshirts and jeans just don`t cut it. However, that’s what some grade school kids have been wearing to class this winter. School administrators say a large majority of new students came from the southern part of the county, and didn`t have the correct winter clothing. To make sure students get the appropriate clothes, J-MAC Resources and Home of Economy are teaming up.

The south is known for many things, like good cooking, but one thing it isn`t known for is cold winters.

"We`ve had students that have come from Texas, and they think that flats without socks are okay, and not realizing how cold it really does get," said Hagen Elementary School Principal Darla Ratzak.

Watford City Elementary School Principal Brad Foss says when winter came; several new students were wearing only a light jacket.

"We actually have to go through with our teachers and staff how to train these kids how to dress. Dress in layers, how to dress appropriately for winter weather," Foss said.

But you can`t dress appropriately if you don`t have the right clothes.

"We are scrambling, real quickly, with Home of Economy, then we`re also doing some of our own ordering. We`re gathering all of this clothing so that we can present it to all of the school administrators," said JMAC Marketing Coordinator Judy Billehus.

JMAC Resources bought hats, jackets, pants, and several other winter clothing items to donate to grade school kids. School administrators picked up the clothing this morning, and will give it to the students.

"It makes a big deal. Especially for those families that are coming out here somewhat desperate, and trying to find jobs, and trying to just establish themselves up here," Foss added.

JMAC General Manager Robert Krom is a North Dakota native and is happy to be able to give back.

"A lot of people come into this community. There`s sometimes a sense of taking from the community, and we want to make sure that JMAC and its affiliates are always giving back to the community that we work and live in everyday," Krom said.

Around 120 students will benefit from this donation.

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