Darien YWCA & Riverbrook Regional YMCA Partner with One Warm Coat

Darien CT

23 December, 2021

8:43 PM

Description

Every year, One Warm Coat partners with nonprofit agencies across the country to distribute gently worn and new coats to organizations in need of them. This year the YWCA Darien Norwalk in partnership with Riverbrook Regional YMCA served as One Warm Coat, Coat Drive Ambassadors, and identified Person-To-Person in Norwalk as an organization in need of coats. Jarred Barnes, YMCA COO, picked up 50 coats, and YWCA Board Chair, Aidan Welsh, picked up an additional 25, and they both delivered them to Person-To-Person in Norwalk. The need was especially urgent this year. Last winter, because of disruptions caused by COVID-19, One Warm Coat saw a 50 percent 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. Many households are struggling to cover basic living expenses, and don't have the money to purchase necessities such as warm coats," said Marli Hayes, CEO of YWCA Darien/Norwalk. 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 1 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 Highway North in Darien, CT. For more information, please visit www.ywcadn.org or call 203-655-2535.