Winter coats keeping kids warm during current cold spell

Warren County Middle School Rotary Interact students who helped with the distribution of ‘coats for kids’, left to right: Faryn Gorham, Natalya Carter, Nicole Ranney, Amanda Genari, Annie Hrbek, Laney Schenher and Lacie Glascock. Courtesy Photo

The Rotary Club of Front Royal announced completion of its second annual “Coats for Kids” campaign which is helping needy children in Warren County stay warm during these coldest days of the winter.

Rotary president Kym Crump said the club provided 143 coats through individual member donations – $20 per coat – and through local businesses including Apple House, Royal Cinemas, Royal Bowling Center, Warren County, Warren County Veterinary Clinic, Southern States, Virginia Arts, United Bank, Warren County Treasurer, IHOP, RSW Regional Jail, C&C Frozen Treats, Royal Oak Animal Clinic, and The River Radio Station.

County Administrator Doug Stanley headed this second annual Rotary clothing campaign, an offshoot of “Operation Warm” in Pennsylvania which manufactures specially designed winter outer wear for children in need. “Operation Warm” recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.

In offering thanks for those who participated locally, Crump remarked that a brand new winter coat “can change a child’s life and empower (children in need) with greater self-confidence and increased school attendance.”

Stanley said “we are extremely pleased with the support of the community…and hope we will be able to continue and grow this program in the future.”

Social Services Director DeAnna Cheatham announced that additional children in need of a coat to get through the rest of a winter suddenly turned brutally cold, can contact her at (540) 635-3460, extension 3370 – she has more in hand.