ROCK SPRINGS – Even with the bitter cold, there are families in our community who cannot afford a heavy coat for their children or themselves. The Rock Springs Coat Bank is looking for donations to help keep these folks warm this winter.
Recently a long-standing tradition continued as the Wyoming Radio Network gathered and donated coats to the bank. Community Housing Authority Director April Thompson said approximately 100 coats made their way to the coat bank from the radio network. But the demand has been very high this year.
Last year, Thompson said the coat bank provided coats and warmth to 119 folks. So far this year, they are already at 109 with the coldest spells still on their way. She said they do not want jackets because there is not enough room to store them and they would displace heavier coats.
Housing Technician Hollie Portillo also assists Thompson with all the services at the Rock Springs Housing Offices. Portillo said there is an extreme need for boys and girls coats sizes 5 and 6. There are less than five sitting on the rack currently. She said they are also running low on men’s large coats.
Those families who do not have the warm, good coats for this winter can make their way to the housing office to pick one up. Portillo said kids must be present to get a coat so they can try it on and make sure it is the right fit.
Although the main objective is coats, they also have hats, gloves, boots and a few snowsuits. If you have extra hats, boots, gloves or snowsuits talk to the coat bank and see what they will take.
The coat bank will be at Christmas in the Park on Dec. 7 at Bunning Park where they will be collecting coats and answering questions. Thompson reached out to the public to help with this need especially in the bitter cold weather we are currently having. They are looking for new or gently used coats. Again they are not looking for any jackets. Specifically the coat banks needs boys and girls coats sizes 5 and 6 and men’s coats.
“Any donation is is very much welcome,” Thompson said. “We appreciate every donation received greatly.”
