Community

Sorority collects coats for kids in need as temperature drops

For the past four years, the Charlotte Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated has collected hundreds of coats for the Steve’s Coats for Kids campaign to help keep area children warm in the winter.

On Saturday, the chapter will hold a special collection from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the Delta Center at 5408 Beatties Ford Road. The women are encouraging community members to come by and donate a new or gently worn coat.

“Providing a warm coat to anyone that needs it, especially a child, shows understanding and compassion,” said Melody Harris, president of the local chapter.

WSOC-TV’s Steve’s Coats for Kids collects coats for local children who live in need, and the coats are distributed by Crisis Assistance Ministry. An independent nonprofit agency, Crisis Assistance Ministry focuses on preventing homelessness and preserving dignity for Charlotte-Mecklenburg's working poor -- providing assistance with rent, utilities, clothing and furniture.

Harris hopes this event will inspire others to continue the deed of giving back to their community.

“The community can make a positive impact by opening their eyes and ears to understand the needs of others and practicing daily kindness,” said Harris.

The Steve’s Coats for Kids campaign runs from now until Dec. 31, 2020.

WSOC-TV’s Steve’s Coats for Kids campaign was introduced in 2005. All donations are distributed through the Crisis Assistance Ministry, an independent nonprofit agency focused on preventing homelessness and preserving dignity for Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s working poor.

Steve’s Coats for Kids has collected over 200,000 coats, and every one spends less than 48 hours in the Crisis Assistance Ministry Free Store before benefiting someone in need.

There are more than 70 Steve’s Coats for Kids donation locations across the Carolinas, including Showmars, Ashley HomeStore, E.R. Plumbing Services, Crisis Assistance Ministry and all Charlotte fire stations.

CLICK HERE TO FIND A STEVE’S COATS DONATION LOCATION NEAR YOU.

You can find out more information and discover how you can get involved at www.StevesCoatsForKids.com.

If you have an inspiring story, please contact Kevin Campbell, WSOC-TV/WAXN-TV/Telemundo Charlotte Public Affairs Manager, at Kevin.Campbell@wsoctv.com.