St. Leo’s Annual Coat Drive returns in time for cooler temps

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) - This will be the 19th year that the St. Leo’s Annual Coat Drive provides new and gently used coats, hats, and gloves of all sizes to those in need throughout the Grand Island area.

This year’s coat giveaway, under the guidance of the Human Concerns Committee of St. Leo’s parish, is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26, at St. Leo’s Church, located at 2410 S. Blaine in Grand Island.

Peachis Amadou, Outreach Coordinator at St. Leo’s Parish, said the event has been a great success in the past. Last year, 1,988 coats were collected and 1,698 were distributed.

“We are blessed to have such a giving community,” Amadou said. “Their generosity is what makes this event possible.”

“St Leo’s is the heart of our community, where people come together to help our fellow neighbor,” Nicolette Sanchez of the Ombudsman Learning Center said. “My clients would try to make sure their children had coats and winter wear but often would not be able to get one for themselves. Knowing someone cares every time you put on your coat is a positive way to make a difference in someone’s life.”

Besides at St. Leo’s, new or gently used coats, gloves, and scarves can be dropped off at U-Save on Webb Rd, Hy-Vee, and both Super Savers in Grand Island.

Amadou also said that the past 18 years have shown a great need especially for children’s coats of all sizes, and adult coats XXL and larger.

After the coat drive, any leftover coats will be donated to the Church of Christ for its free clothing give-away every Thursday.