Warm Coats & Winter Fun
Winters in Indiana can be unpredictable, but knowing whether or not your child will have a coat to keep them warm when they need it shouldn’t be. That’s why across Indiana The Salvation Army works with families to ensure that children have warm winter coats, hats, and gloves to keep them safe and healthy, no matter what the weather has in store.
This fall, Benton County held its 3rd Annual Coats for Kids event. Through collaboration with the Community Action Program, Inc., the local chapter of Tri-Kappa, and Macy’s department store in Lafayette, The Salvation Army was able to distribute over 150 coats at the event.
These coats go to children whose families are facing financial hardship. The winter season can be the most expensive time of year, with the extra expenses tied to the holidays and spiking utility costs. For families that are living from paycheck to paycheck, all it takes is one unexpected car repair or medical bill to leave them without the funds for other seasonal needs.
The Salvation Army wants to make sure that no parent has to choose between paying a bill and putting food on the table, or worry about how they will keep their child warm during recess and while they wait for the school bus.
“We are so blessed to be able to do this coat drive for the third year,” shares Christine Sheetz, The Salvation Army's Service Extension Representative for Benton County. “The children are always so excited to try their coats on. It fills me with joy to look out the window of the Benton County Center, and see all the kids on the playground wearing their brand new coat.”
The Benton County Coats for Kids coat drive and distribution is just one of the many programs around the state that offer warm winter coats to children who need them. In combination with utility, rent, and other emergency assistance, programs like these help families get through tough times with hope in their hearts. With the help of generous donors like you, The Salvation Army can keep growing these programs for years to come.