On November 8th, the Middletown Rotary embarked on its first-ever month-long coat drive to address the increasing demand for cold weather clothing in our community. The aim was to collect new and gently used clean, warm coats, jackets, hats, and gloves in all sizes, to help ensure that no member of our community would face the winter without the warmth and protection they deserve.
Public engagement was key, with public collection sites at Newport County YMCA, Bank Newport's at Washington Square, and Wickford Appliance in Middletown. Rotarians mobilized their networks, while KVH Industries and the Middletown Town Hall encouraged their employees to contribute generously to this worthy cause.
The Newport/Middletown Rotary-sponsored Interact youth group played a crucial role, not only setting up and decorating collection boxes but also by adding a personal touch. They crafted handmade pocket notes with uplifting messages, which found their place in the pockets of donated coats.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community and the collective efforts of all involved, 498 warm coats and more than 300 winter accessories were collected. Warming items were distributed to those in need within our community, with primary beneficiaries being the Martin Luther King Food Pantry and the Island Oasis Food Pantry at Middletown High.
In addition to these vital organizations, other recipients included the Newport Mental Health Mobile Crisis Van, Conexión Latina Newport, and Oceanpointe Church, which provided coats during its monthly community meal. Coats were also distributed to individuals in the Aging Well program at Child & Family.
This collaborative effort showcased the strength of our community and the Rotary's commitment to making a meaningful impact. The success of the coat drive not only provided warmth but also exemplified the spirit of compassion and solidarity that defines our Middletown Rotary family.