WorkOne in Pulaski County and Starke County are working together to host a kids’ coat drive this month. Their goal is to assist local children who may not have the proper apparel for the approaching winter months.
Youth Business Engagement Specialist Kathi Holem said this is the first year that WorkOne has held a coat drive. She said that although they will mainly be collecting coats for small children, they are open to donations of other kids’ winter wear as well.
“We’ve also talked about some hats and gloves and I think that’s a great idea. We just want the focus to stay on infant to maybe second and third grade because of space, we’re kind of limited in our offices.” Holem explained, “We’re hoping if this one goes well this year then we’ll do another coat drive next year and maybe expand it to older ages.”
Supplies can be dropped off at the WorkOne in Winamac on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. They can also be dropped off at the WorkOne in Knox Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.
Coats will be available for distribution on Monday, November 27th from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. CT at 1913 South Heaton Street in Knox. They will also be distributed on Tuesday, November 28th from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4:30 p.m. ET at 123 North Market Street in Winamac.
Holem added that in the coming months, WorkOne is offering a few more programs. In December they will host a toy drive and in January they’re doing a food drive. She said these drives will allow WorkOne to assist the community while also spreading the word about the services they offer that assist individuals with employment, education and training.
