Volunteers, Donations Needed For This Year’s Keeping Our Community Warm Campaign in Langlade County

Volunteers are gearing up for this year’s Keeping Our Community Warm coat collection drive now underway.

The drive is coordinated by the Salvation Army, with coats on display and available through AmeriGas. Coats may be dropped off at a variety of collection boxes being placed throughout the community or brought directly to AmeriGas, located directly across from the Langlade County Fairgrounds.

“Families who need winter coats and snow pants have already been stopping,” Julie Brandt of AmeriGas said. “We would like to turn the Keeping Our Community Warm sign to face the highway as soon as more clothes are received from families with extras in the closet.”

Families with winter clothing, clean and in good condition can drop them off at AmeriGas weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Large boxes will be made available for businesses wanting to collect winter clothing. All sizes of winter clothing are needed, especially youth size coats, snowpants and boots. Winter caps can be accepted only if they are not previously worn.

Those needing outerwear can also stop in during regular business hours and pick out coats.

“Many families in Langlade County were able to keep warm because of the program,” Bill Kelly, coordinator for the Salvation Army, said. “It also gives families with extra clothing an opportunity to share with families who need help.”

This is the second year AmeriGas has offered its facility for the coat distribution. 

“It was really rewarding to us at AmeriGas to join with local Salvation Army volunteers to help many families stay warm with donated coats,” Brandt said. “ Lots of coat racks need to be filled by families with extra winter clothing so we can turn the sign to face the highway.”

Kelly is looking for community groups willing to help collect winter clothing and deliver to AmeriGas. Community organizations and groups who would like to help collect coats can contact Bill Kelly at 715-623-7838.

Bill Kelly, Salvation Army volunteer and Julie Brandt, AmeriGas employee are ready to accept winter clothing donations for families who need winter coats, snowpants, boots and mittens.

Source: Antigo Daily Journal