The Vermont Knights of Columbus State Council is organizing a statewide “Coats for Kids” program this year to help local councils supply children the warmth and comfort they need for the coming winter season.

On Tuesday, October 22nd members of the Vermont Knights of Columbus received 114 cases of children’s coats at St. John Vianney Catholic Church in South Burlington. This totaled 1,368 coats in various sizes and colors intended for boys and girls across Vermont. Organized by program coordinator Keith Mandart of Newport, K of C councils from around the state converged in South Burlington to pick up their boxes so that they can distribute them in the coming weeks. Though some councils will use a local food shelf or school as a distribution point to needy families, other councils will coordinate with local social services, civic groups, and churches to identify those children who are most in need of a warm coat to endure the cold Vermont winter.

Valdemar Garibay, the leader (Grand Knight) for Council 297 in St. Albans said, “We published our coats-for-kids information on the St. Albans Vermont Facebook page and within minutes we received many requests. We were able to personally hand out the coats to those in the local community. It feels great when we can witness first-hand how we are making a positive difference in someone’s life. Our council hopes to sponsor the same program next fall!”

If you would like to learn more about the Knights of Columbus or a Catholic man who would like to join our team, please contact State Membership Director Valdemar Garibay at [email protected] or visit www.kofc.org/join.