Nearly 4,000 new winter coats are being distributed to residents in need across Worcester County beginning Monday, Oct. 19, as the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office launches the distribution phase of its annual Winter Coat Drive.
Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and members of his team will travel throughout the county, delivering coats to food pantries, nonprofit organizations, community centers and other agencies that assist individuals and families facing financial hardship.
The effort, organized by the Sheriff’s Office and the Worcester County Reserve Deputy Sheriff’s Association, is intended to help residents prepare for colder weather while supporting the local organizations that serve them.
The annual campaign relies on contributions from businesses, community organizations and individuals to provide new winter coats to people who might otherwise struggle to afford them.
“Every year, we are reminded of just how much of a difference something as simple as a warm winter coat can make,” Evangelidis said in an announcement from the Sheriff’s Office. “This initiative is about more than providing coats. It’s about bringing people together, supporting our neighbors, and showing those in need that their community cares.”
This year’s supporters include Saint Francis Community Health Foundation, Mercadante Funeral Home, the Cliff & Susan Rucker Foundation, CareOne at Millbury, The Overlook, Diamond Auto Group, Imperial Cars, Rockland Trust Bank, Beacon Bank, the Worcester Red Sox and NEPBA Local 550 Worcester County Correction Officers, among others.
The coat drive is one of the Sheriff’s Office’s longstanding community outreach programs, bringing together local businesses, volunteers and social service organizations to provide winter clothing to residents throughout the county.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin Monday and continue at locations across Worcester County.
“We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors and community partners who make this effort possible year after year,” Evangelidis said in the announcement.
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