Kewaunee County’s Violence Intervention Project is once again helping area children equip for the harsh Wisconsin winter. The group expects the economic downturn to boost demand for the coats and snow pants provided by Operation Warm. Usually, collection points are spread throughout the county at over 20 locations. This year, for safety reasons, items can be dropped off only at the VIP location on Division Street in Algoma. New or gently used donations will be gathered on Monday, October 19th, and Tuesday, October 20th. Advocate Jillian says that while coats and snow pants are specifically requested, other items will be happily taken.
Families are required to register their children by calling the Violence Intervention Project at 920-487-2111. The cutoff is Thursday, October 22nd. Jillian says between the expected increase in demand and the additional time needed to comply with new safety measures, distributions will be happening over two days instead of one in early November. Typically, over 100 coats are handed out per year.
Operation Warm was begun in Pennsylvania in 1998. Kewaunee County has had its chapter since 2012 with deep roots in the community.
*Photo courtesy of Operation Warm media relations website.
