Coats for Kids Program: An 18-Year Tradition of Giving Back

For 18 years, the Coats for Kids program has been a beacon of hope and warmth for children across our service territory. The program’s mission is simple yet vital: to ensure that children in elementary schools throughout our service territory have a brand-new winter coat to stay warm during the colder months. Thanks to the support of the community, the program has been able to continue providing this essential service year after year.

Supporting Warmth: How Coats for Kids is Funded
The Coats for Kids program relies on a variety of funding sources to meet its goals each year. This year, a total of 260 coats were distributed to local schools, all made possible through a combination of generous donations. Key funding sources include: the sale of our scrap metals, employee and director contributions, a matching grant from CoBank Sharing Success program, and a new addition this year, proceeds from the Coffee, Cars & Coats car show, organized by Chuck Laird, helped fund the purchase of new coats.

A Growing Impact
The Coats for Kids program provided 260 winter coats to children in need this year, with the coats being distributed to a wide range of schools throughout the region. These schools serve children in a wide array of communities, and the program’s positive impact is felt by students, teachers, and parents alike. For many of these children, receiving a new winter coat is not just about staying warm—it’s a symbol of the community’s care and support for their well-being.

The Power of Community Support: Guided by Concern for Community
The success of the Coats for Kids program is a true reflection of the cooperative principle of Concern for Community. This principle emphasizes the importance of contributing to the well-being of the community, and the Coats for Kids program exemplifies this by bringing together individuals, businesses, and organizations to meet a shared goal. It’s about ensuring that children in our local schools have the warmth and support they need during the winter months.

Through the combined efforts of volunteers, donors, and local partners, the program not only provides winter coats but also strengthens the fabric of our community. By addressing this basic need, the program not only keeps kids warm but also boosts their self-esteem, allowing them to focus on their education and personal growth instead of worrying about the cold. This collaborative effort demonstrates how working together can make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the children and families we serve, highlighting the cooperative principle of Concern for Community in action.

Thanks to the generosity of so many, the Coats for Kids program remains a shining example of how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Here’s to another year of warmth, care, and community spirit!