Coats available for those in need

Organizers of the second annual Warm Coats for McLeod Communities drive hope to build on last year’s success. Last year, they distributed more than 1,000 coats to McLeod County residents in need.

This year, they will distribute free new and gently used coats from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, and from 9 a.m. to noon Friday, Oct. 17, at the McLeod County Fairgrounds in Hutchinson and Pla-Mor Ballroom in Glencoe.

Coats are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Parents are asked to bring their children along to ensure a proper fit.

Janet Vacek of Heartland Community Action Agency said last year’s event warmed the hearts of both coat recipients and volunteers. It was moving, she said, “just to see how excited little kids get about choosing a coat and putting it on.”

Adults in need can also benefit. Vacek met a man last year who hadn’t owned a new coat in 30 years. His coat at the time was threadbare and had been repeatedly patched.

Volunteer Marie Klinghagen added there are no income guidelines. “If you need one, get it,” she said.

Coat collection at more than 60 area sites officially ended Oct. 8, but Bev Bonte of Common Cup Ministry said donations of coats, or money to purchase them, will be accepted until “the last minute.” Coats for children ages 5 to 12 are especially needed.

For more information, call Bonte at (320) 587-2213 or call Klinghagen at (320) 587-8262.

(Jorge Sosa is a staff writer for the Hutchinson Leader. He can be reached at sosa@hutchinsonleader.com)