From poverty to providing: Giving back through Steve's Coats for Kids

“I started working when I was twelve.  I had to get up at one or two in the morning to deliver newspapers.  By sixteen years old, I was on my own.”

As Sabrina Pridgeon, a business analyst for Duke Energy, held up a picture of herself as a child, she said her experience of growing up in poverty is one reason why she volunteered to be a chairperson for Duke Energy's committee to collect coats for Steve's Coats for Kids.

WSOC-TV's Steve's Coats for Kids collects new and gently used coats for local children who live in need, and the coats are distributed by Crisis Assistance Ministry.

“I was raised by a single mother who had to work three jobs.  I had to take care of myself.” Pridgeon said.  “My mom left when I was sixteen.  If it were not for the school system and families who helped me, I wouldn’t have made it.”

Pridgeon, a North Carolina native, said she will continue to try and deliver hope to others.  “I’ve always had a passion for children because of influences in my life.  Others helped me change my life, and I know I can help change a child’s future.”

“When I was a kid, I had to purchase my own coat and boots.”  Pridgeon said.  “A lot of children don’t have anything to keep them warm.  I am a firm believer that if you are able to do for others - you should."

Click here to find how you can help at www.StevesCoatsForKids.com

Cox Media Group