Koats for Kids - A Community's Warm Embrace
As the chill of autumn settles in, the Winnebago County community has once again demonstrated its generosity and compassion through our annual Koats for Kids initiative. With an impressive collection of hundreds of new and gently used coats, this year’s coat drive promises to keep hundreds of local children warm throughout winter.
This year’s success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of GreenState Credit Union, who generously sponsored the drive with a $10,000 donation. Their commitment to the community is truly inspiring, highlighting the impact that local businesses can have on those in need. Major Monty Wandling remarked, “It is wonderful that this year a sponsorship from GreenState Credit Union will help us ensure kids that need coats get coats.”
The culmination of this year’s efforts was celebrated at the Koats for Kids distribution event held at The Salvation Army Rockford Tabernacle Corps on Saturday, October 19. Families gathered as a total of 185 coats and an equal number of winter accessories were distributed to 77 families in attendance.
In addition to the warm clothing, twenty-one local businesses and organizations participated, providing resources to attending families. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit that defines our community, ensuring that families left with not only coats but also connections and support.
To add an extra layer of warmth to the day, The Salvation Army canteen was also on hand, offering tasty treats of hot chocolate and popcorn.
Behind the scenes, the event thrived thanks to the incredible volunteers who dedicated their time and energy. Thirty individuals selflessly contributed 120 volunteer hours, sorting through coats and assisting families in finding the perfect fit. Their enthusiasm and commitment turned what could have been a simple distribution into a joyful and memorable experience.
As the colder months approach, the mission continues. More coats will be distributed in the coming weeks to families in need, including those receiving assistance from The Salvation Army Food Pantry. This ongoing effort ensures that the warmth and support of the community reach every corner where it is needed most.
The Salvation Army extends its profound gratitude to everyone who contributed to this year’s Koats for Kids—from the businesses that hosted donation barrels to the dedicated volunteers who offered their time and energy.
Together, we can ensure that no child is left shivering in the cold and that every family feels the warmth of community love.
A special thank you to the following:
Our Sponsor: GreenState Credit Union
The following organizations:
- 5 Alarm Coin Laundry
- Costco of Loves Park
- Department of Child and Family Services
- Family Peace Center
- Forest City Church
- Goodwill
- Milestone Inc.
- Peak Sports Club
- PowerMarket
- Prairie State Legal Services
- Remedies
- Rockford Christian Schools
- Rockford Public Library
- Rockford Temple Corps
- Rosecrance
- Rock Valley College - Workforce Equity Initiative
- Safe Kids
- The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center
- The Workforce Connection
- U of I Extension
- UI Health Mile Square Health Center L.P. Johnson Rockford
- United Way
- Winnebago County Health Department
- YMCA of Rock River Valley
- Youth Leadership Council
- Youth Services Network, Inc. - Child & Family Connections #1
- Youth Services Network - MELD
And a special thank you to our amazing volunteers!