WIBH coat campaign raises nearly $10,000 to provide winter coats for children
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
ANNA, Ill., (KBSI) — WIBH Radio concluded its 15th annual New Coats, New Hope Campaign in December, raising $9,962 to provide winter coats for children in need across Southern Illinois.
Through a partnership with Operation Warm, the campaign purchased 398 new coats. Shipping costs were covered by Shipping Saint of Anna. Over the past 15 years, the campaign has raised more than $95,000 and provided more than 4,600 coats to area children.
Since 2011, WIBH has partnered with local agencies to raise awareness and distribute coats. T&I Office Equipment printed outreach materials, while Shawnee Mass Transit and Duck Works Lawncare assisted with transportation.
Distribution partners include Arrowleaf, Children’s Medical and Mental Health Resource Network, Rural Health Inc. and Southern Seven Head Start.
The coats were distributed in early February to children ages 3 to 16 living in the lower 45 counties of Illinois who have been affected by abuse, neglect, disaster or family hardship. No paperwork or proof of income is required to receive a coat.
According to campaign organizers, about 20% of children in Southern Illinois live in poverty, making access to warm clothing essential during winter months.
WIBH and its partners are planning the fifth annual Warm Soles, New Hope shoe drive in April to provide new shoes for children during Child Abuse Prevention Month. More information is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
