Racks of coats lined the room at the Life Learning Center in Covington, where shoppers like Aminata Villa looked for the perfect coats for themselves and their children.
“It’s very important for community because … some people … their income is low,” she told me. “Something like this can help for saving money and protect our health because it’s too cold outside.”
Since October, St. Vincent de Paul of Northern Kentucky has collaborated with St. Vincent de Paul Cincinnati and Arlinghaus Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning to collect new and gently used coats, filling the room with an adequate supply of all sizes. They will continue to accept donations until January 2025.
“Their sponsorship has allowed us to buy these larger-size coats that are in high demand because when people are out in the elements, they like to layer up,” said Karen Zengel, executive director of St. Vincent de Paul of Northern Kentucky. “Having those larger-size coats allows them to do that and stay extra warm.”
Zengel also emphasized that much of this would not be possible without the assistance of volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure that every guest found a coat they loved.
“These are brothers and sisters in need,” explained volunteer Rosa Hollis-Bird, 12. “That’s what Saint Vincent Paul is all about … bringing whatever we can to our families and helping them to be safe.”
It made all the difference for families like the Villas.
“I’m very excited,” she expressed. “I get what I like … I’m very happy.”
Two additional events will be held on Saturday, December 14 from 9 a.m. to noon at John G. Carlisle Elementary School in Covington and Cristo Rey Catholic Church in Florence.
