As we enjoy the holidays, it’s important to remember the many families who have barely enough money to buy the necessities. According to the US Census Bureau, 18% of children in United States, and 14% of children in Canada, live in poverty. As low-income families try to keep their children fed, they often don’t have the funds to also keep them warm and cozy.
In response to the alarming situation, the Knights of Columbus District of Columbia State Council created the “Coats for Kids” campaign in 2009. The initiative is made up of over 3,000 brothers from 22 active councils coming together to ensure kids in need are provided with a coat in the DC area.
The campaign has since stretched beyond the Washington DC district line. Since 2009, councils throughout the US and Canada have purchased 500,000 coats, so that no child goes cold during winter. The coats are then distributed by police and fire departments during their regular duties, or at special events organized by the Knights.
This is just one of the many charitable actions the Knights take part in each year. In fact, this year alone the 2 million worldwide members contributed a staggering $187 million towards charitable causes, as well as providing 77 million service hours!
If you would like to donate to the campaign, click on the campaign website here. Alternatively, you can check to see if there are any charities in your area who would appreciate any coats you may no longer use that are still in good condition.
The DC area drive will be taking place at the following times and locations:
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