349 reasons to smile: Kids Coats warms 131 Westfield families

Submitted by Eric Lohe
Lead Pastor, CrossRoads Church at Westfield

There was a lot of warmth in the air last Saturday as Hamilton County Kids Coats partnered with CrossRoads Church at Westfield to help make sure Westfield children are ready for the cold winter months ahead.

In an impressive demonstration of community generosity, Kids Coats distributed 349 winter coats to 131 local families, making a meaningful difference for children who might otherwise face the winter without adequate protection from the cold. In addition to the coats, families also received gloves and hats to help keep their children warm from head to toe.

This was about more than simply handing out winter clothing. Kids Coats created a welcoming shopping experience at CrossRoads Church at Westfield where families could come inside, browse the selections, and choose just the right coat for each child. With a variety of sizes, colors, and styles available, parents and children had the opportunity to find something that fit comfortably and that each child would be excited to wear.

For many families, the opportunity to select a new winter coat for their children is something that can easily be taken for granted. But for others, the rising cost of everyday necessities can make purchasing winter clothing for growing children a real financial challenge.

Photo provided by CrossRoads Church at Westfield

That’s what makes the work of Hamilton County Kids Coats so important.

Beyond the coats distributed, families experienced something equally valuable: the knowledge that their Westfield community cares about them.

Every coat represented a child who will be a little warmer this winter. Every pair of gloves and every hat represented another small act of kindness. Every family who walked through the doors of CrossRoads Church was reminded that neighbors helping neighbors is what makes a community special.

349 coats. 131 families. Countless smiles. And a whole lot of warmth!

Kids Coats of Hamilton County still has coat distribution events scheduled this fall:

• Saturday, Nov. 7: Green Valley Church, 19005 Cumberland Road, Noblesville
• Saturday, Nov. 14: Delaware Township Community Center, 9094 E. 131^st, Fishers

Families seeking ongoing coat assistance can also contact the Merciful HELP Center at Our Lady of Carmel Catholic Church.

To learn more about Hamilton County Kids Coats, its programs, or ways to help, visit kidscoats.org.

To learn more about CrossRoads Church at Westfield’s many local community ministries including free pet food, Pizza and Punchlines Comedy night, Celebrate Recovery, and free home repairs, visit CRChurch.org.