Credit Union Helps Collect "Coats for Kids"

As winter approaches, there is a growing need for warm coats in  Dodge City. In response to that need, the Credit Union of Dodge City is stepping  up, taking donations from a number of residents across town for its “Coats for  Kids” charity.

The Credit Union of Dodge City is accepting donations of winter  coats along with monetary donations to be used to purchase coats for those in  need. Coats for both children and adults are accepted and donations are taken  year round, with the largest number of donations taking place in the fall. In  the past the credit union has received donations from organizations including  the Community Foundation of Southwest Kansas and the Dodge City Area Women’s  Chamber of Commerce.

The credit union send out letters to schools at the beginning of  each fall reminding them of the charity so that students and their parents can  request coats. Those in school can obtain a coat by contacting their school  counselor. If a child is not in school, their parent can stop by the credit  union’s location at 1200 W Frontview St.

The credit union has been making coat donations for about 10 years.  It started with a request from Bright Beginnings. The response to the request  was so strong, including a $1,000 donation, that the credit union decided to  turn it into a yearly charity.

“It’s been highly supported by the community,” CEO Karen Hamit said.  “We probably receive in coats and money $3,000 in a year’s time.”

All proceeds go to purchasing coats, with all overhead costs coming  out of the credit union’s budget.

The credit union distributes between 150 and 300 coats each year and  their reach isn’t limited to Dodge City. Coats are also given to residents of  surrounding towns including Bucklin, Minneola, Jetmore, Kinsley and  Offerle.

“I believe in making sure that every child in this community has a  coat and that they’re all warm and safe and sound during the winter time,” Hamit  said.

Those interested in making a donation to the Credit Union of Dodge  City can bring coats or monetary donations to any of the credit union’s  buildings, including their locations at 1200 W Frontview St and 802 W Trail St.  Monetary donations can also be sent by mail.