NAHANT — Nahant’s Lions Club of District 33N has partnered with Coats for Kids this year to collect warm winter coats for adults and children of all ages.
Running through Jan. 10, 2021, the organization’s goal is to collect 50,000 coats to meet what representatives called an “increasing need” thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It goes without saying that this year has been challenging for all of us, but families in need are hit especially hard as cold weather hits and the kids need new winter coats,” said Arthur Anton Jr., Chief Operating Officer of Anton’s Cleaners and Coats for Kids founder. “Everyone needs a warm winter coat, and Caring Partners’ mission is still to provide a coat to anyone who needs one.”
In 2018, the organization reached its goal of collecting and distributing one million coats since the program began in 1995.
Coats are distributed through distribution partners made up of major local nonprofit and social service agencies, including Massachusetts Community Action programs, Salvation Army, Middlesex Human Service Agency, Women’s Lunch Place, Boston University Medical Center Outreach Van Project, and many more.
Partners for this year’s Coats for Kids drive include Anton’s Cleaners, Jordan’s Furniture, Enterprise Bank, Boston 25 Cares, Kiss 108FM, Jam’n 945, 101.7 The Bull, WBZ 1030, 97.7 The Beat, WRKO, and 100.7 WZLX.
“Our legion of collection partners rises and meets the need by collecting the coats, Anton’s is proud to provide cleaning and sanitizing services, (making) sure these clean coats get to those who need them through our network of distribution partners,” Anton said “Working together, we can and will make this winter a bit warmer for babies, children, and adults once again.”
Those looking to donate should drop off their winter wear in a bag at any of 40 local Anton’s Cleaners, 23 Enterprise Bank branches, or six Jordan’s furniture locations, or reach out to Lion’s Club representative Joy Bartlett at [email protected]. Businesses looking to sign up as a partner can register online at antons.com/cfk.
A press release from Coats for Kids noted the organization accepts coats in good condition of all sizes, but has a particular need for XL adults and infant/pre-k sizes.
The organization does not take coats with rips, tears, broken zippers, or permanent stains, nor does it accept sweatshirts, vests, or spring coats.
For more information, interested parties should contact Stephanie Littlefield of Anton’s Cleaners Community Relations at (978) 851-3721×15, or email her at [email protected].
