The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is an international organization of volunteer Catholic women and men with more than 1 million members in 142 countries, and a mission to "seek and find the forgotten, the suffering or the deprived." It provides people in need with food, clothing and furniture. Our local chapter also offers an Energy Assistance Program, a dental clinic, and a summer camp for underprivileged children.
Each winter, the society runs Operation Coat Check to collect coats to keep those in need warm. Go through your closets and find those coats that are too big or too small or that you just don't wear any more and donate them to Operation Coat Check. You can drop them off at a Dryclean Depot (locations in Bloomfield Hills, Center Line, Farmington Hills and Royal Oak) or to one of the 13 St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores in the Metro Detroit area.
“The need is greater than ever this year, “ said SVDP Executive Director, Bill Brazier. “After last winter’s polar vortex, we really need the help of the community to meet the increasing numbers of people that are coming to us for help to keep warm. Through the simple donation of a coat you can make a significant impact on the life of someone in our community.”
If you don't have a spare coat, please consider a making a monetary donation.
There are St. Vincent de Paul chapters all across the United States. Even if your chapter doesn't have an official coat drive, any of the thrift stores will accept donations of gently used clothing. Please help the society help the people in need in your area. Every little bit helps.