BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Vermont Federal Credit Union is teaming up with WCAX to host the first Great Vermont Coat Drive. All coats will be collected and distributed by the Vermont Department of Children and Families, ensuring that those in need receive the warmth they deserve this winter.
As a Credit Union, Vermont Federal is all about people helping people, and its stated purpose is to help Vermonters prosper no matter where they may be on life’s journey. The Great Vermont Coat Drive is a wonderful opportunity for all Vermonters to help their neighbors in need.
“We are actively involved because we live in our communities. For us, it’s personal that we build healthy communities: said Jean Giard, CEO of Vermont Federal Credit Union. “We have started this coat drive because there’s a big, big need out there for warm coats in the cold Vermont weather. It’s not just a coat. It’s caring. It’s caring for those individuals who are unable to buy a coat, and it’s caring for those individuals who are struggling to put food on the table. Vermont Federal cares about our communities because we live and work in those communities. There’s a great need out there, and we can help.”
The Coat Drive is one of many community events and charities supported by Vermont Federal Credit Union. In 2023 alone, Vermont Federal Credit Union employees donated over 2,300 hours of volunteer work in the community.
“It’s great to work here at Vermont Federal Credit Union because of the importance that we put on community. It’s a great, rewarding environment where we can make a difference for people,” said Peter Winch, VP of Marketing at Vermont Federal. “I think the Coat Drive is a great example of that. If you think about our membership and the WCAX viewers, there’s a real opportunity here. If everybody were to donate one coat, could be adult size, could be children’s size, whatever it might be, we could make a major impact on families in Vermont.”
The Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) mission is to foster the healthy development, safety, well-being, and self-sufficiency of Vermonters. They provide benefits, services, and support to some 200,000 Vermonters every year, including children, youth, families, older Vermonters, and people with disabilities.
“Partnering with Vermont Federal makes a lot of our work possible. With the Coat Drive, it’s bringing a resource to a lot of families, and that’s something that we need right now.” Said Sam Hoeltge with DCF. “I think it’s so nice to be able to wake up in the morning and not have to think about something as basic as having a coat. If Vermont Federal wasn’t involved, we definitely would not have the same level of reach. Donating a coat is a step in the right direction to ending people being out in the cold.”
If you are interested in participating, please bring any size new or gently used coat to any of Vermont Federal’s eight branches. Drop off locations are below or view the full list (with location details) here. Donate today and help bring warmth to a family in need this winter.
