Coats For Kids Program Keeps Children Warm this Winter

When George Dudley initially came up with the idea give out winter coats to kids in need, he thought 500 coats would be enough.

“We need four times that amount now,” said Dudley, executive director of the Tyler Youth Group based in Aliquippa, PA.

He is working in collaboration with Terry Bradford, program director, to make sure the program is a success.

Bradford said the American Legion Post 450 in Sewickley is serving as one of the drop off locations for anyone wishing to donate a new coat. Financial donations toward the purchase of a coat can also be made at any Clearview Federal Credit Union, including the Sewickley branch. 

Since the Coats For Kids drive kicked off late last month, Bradford said about 20 names per day have been added to the list.

“We don’t have to go far to New Jersey or Haiti. We can go right here in Quaker Valley and find people in need,” Bradford said.

The Coats For Kids program targets the river communities that run from McKees Rocks to Beaver Falls and is open to any youth who meets income guidelines. Dudley said any child who qualifies for the free or reduced lunch program is eligible, as well as families receiving some type of assistance.

Dudley said the Tyler Youth Group wants to make sure no child goes without a warm coat this season. Founded in 1987, the non-profit's primary mission is community service that enhances and supports families in Beaver and Allegheny counties. 

"We do what we can," he said. 

To Participate:

Donate money: Financial donations can be made to any Clearview Federal Credit Union in the Greater Pittsburgh area. Donations to the 501c3 qualify for tax deduction and can be earmarked specifically for Sewickley.

Give a coat: Purchase a new coat for a toddler or youth, boy or girl, up to size 16/18. Drop off at any of the following drop-off locations:  

• Sewickley American Legion Post 450

• New Ebenezer AME Church, 1015 Davis St., Aliquippa

• Second Baptist Church, 2322 10th Ave., Beaver Falls

• First Commonwealth Bank, 80 Wagner Road, Monaca (Drop off only)

Join the list: To register on the coat list, or for more information on drop off and pick up, call 724-923-3650. Coat pick up runs Dec. 20-23. 

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