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 Womens� 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� unions 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.

"Its been highly supported by the community," CEO Karen Hamit said.� "We probably receive in coats and money $3,000 in a years time."

All proceeds go to purchasing coats, with all overhead costs coming� out of the credit unions budget.

The credit union distributes between 150 and 300 coats each year and� their reach isnt 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 theyre 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 unions� buildings, including their locations at 1200 W Frontview St and 802 W Trail St.� Monetary donations can also be sent by mail.