YWCA Darien/Norwalk in partnership with Wilton-based Riverbrook Regional YMCA served as “coat drive ambassadors” for One Warm Coat, a nonprofit that distributes coats nationwide to organizations that serve people in need.
— an announcement from the YWCA Darien/Norwalk
The two local groups identified Person-To-Person in Norwalk as an organization in need of coats.
Jarred Barnes, YMCA’s chief operations officer, picked up 50 coats, and YWCA Board Chair Aidan Welsh, picked up another 25, then delivered them to Person-To-Person in Norwalk. The coats are all either gently worn or new.
Contributed photo
Alba, Sue and Leah from Person2Person Norwalk get coats from Jared Barnes of Riverbank YMCA.
The need was especially urgent this year. Last winter, because of disruptions caused by COVID-19, One Warm Coat saw a 50% decline in volunteer coat drives.
“With cold temperatures fast approaching, we wanted to make sure those in need in our community have a warm coat this winter,” said Marli Hayes, CEO of YWCA Darien/Norwalk. “Many households are struggling to cover basic living expenses, and don’t have the money to purchase necessities such as warm coats.”
About One Warm Coat
One Warm Coat is a national nonprofit organization that provides free coats to children and adults in need while promoting volunteerism and environmental sustainability.
Since 1992, One Warm Coat has worked with volunteers and sponsors to hold more than 40,000 coat drives, collecting nearly 7 million coats which have been distributed to people in need through a network of more than 1,000 nonprofit partners across all 50 states.
Individuals and organizations can get involved by donating coats, holding coat drives, and making financial donations. Every $1 donated warms one person. Shelter from the elements is a basic human need along with nourishing food, drinkable water, and a safe place to sleep.
One Warm Coat believes in each person’s right to protection from the cold and is committed to sharing warmth, without discrimination, one coat at a time.
About the YWCA Darien/Norwalk
The YWCA Darien/Norwalk is a non-profit organization dedicated to giving women the support and tools they need to transform their lives, be confident in their choices and raise healthy families.
Its national mission, eliminating racism and empowering women, translates locally into a vision to create opportunities for growth, leadership and empowerment for all women and families.
The YWCA Darien/Norwalk is located at 49 Old King’s Hwy. North in Darien. For more information, please visit www.ywcadn.org or call 203-655-2535.