WCU, WEGO collecting coats for needy families

WEST CHESTER » West Chester University and the Westtown-East Goshen Police Department are collecting coats to be distributed to needy families this winter.

With temperatures ready to drop soon, WCU’s Office of Residence Life and Housing Services is joining forces with the on-campus Resource Pantry to make sure “No Student Is Left Out In The Cold” — a coat drive designed to assist students who may not be able to afford warm outer garments due to financial hardships. Running through Nov. 5, the coat drive is being coordinated to collect 200 gently worn women’s and men’s winter coats. Faculty, staff and members of the community are asked to consider donating coats in good condition at a front desk drop-off destination at Schmidt Hall, 225 W. Rosedale Ave.

“We need our surrounding communities to help with this project and to give generously with warm coats that are in good condition,” said Schmidt Hall Graduate Director Summer Bledsoe. “As the past year has been especially hard for some of our students, we are hopeful that our friends and neighbors will come out to support and uplift our Golden Rams who are in need.”

Make sure the coat is in good, wearable condition, it’s season appropriate for cold weather and clean out all pockets. The garment should have its buttons and/ or workable zippers. The coat should be clean. WCU is committed to helping its students. As an important asset, the University’s Resource Pantry supports student success by minimizing food and basic need insecurities and preparing students for life after graduation. The pantry is open to all undergraduate and graduate students, regardless of need level. No appointment is necessary, and walk-ins are welcome during hours of operation. The pantry offers nonperishable food, fresh produce from the campus gardens, personal care items, school supplies, and winter and career clothing.

For more information about the coat drive, call the Office of Residence Life and Housing Services at (610) 436-2339.

The Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police Department is collecting new and gently used coats for those in need. Drop off coats, hats, gloves and scarves between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Address: 1041 Wilmington Pike. The collection is until Nov. 19. All coats will be donated to one of the following: Cradles to Crayons, Food Pantries, Homeless Shelters in the tri-county area, and the Veterans Hospital in Coatesville.