First DelCo Winter Coat Drive

By Mary A. Crisafulli

DELAWARE COUNTY - On Dec. 4, Senator Peter Oberacker in collaboration with Delaware County officials initiated the first county-wide winter coat drive. A donation box is stationed at the county office building on 111 Main Street, Delhi.

"The holidays give us a chance to pause, count our blessings and most importantly extend a hand to those that need it the most," said Oberacker, "Today we kick off something new, something I hope will become a cherished tradition here in the 51st Senate district." He added that the drive will bring a "little bit of hope and warmth" to the community.

The initiative aims for donations of new or gently used jackets for all age groups. All coats will be delivered to Delaware Opportunities main office at 35430 State Highway 10, Hamden where individuals in need can come and pick them up.

"Every donation dropped off will stay here in Delaware County. Whether it is a child walking to school, a parent commuting to work, or a senior running errands, these donations will keep someone warm this winter," said Oberacker.

"Our deputies out there are not seeing people on their best day when they are encountering them and there are always a lot of things we try to do to make their lives a little brighter and better," said Sheriff Craig DuMond, "This is a steadfast example of how we can do that." The Sheriff's Department donated several toys from their drive to Delaware Opportunities later that day.

"Like the Sheriff said, what he does, what I do we don't always get to see the best parts of people's lives," said District Attorney Shawn Smith, "It's great to be able to work on something that no matter who you talk to we all agree no one should go without a coat."

"As one of the most rural and poorest counties in the Senator's district, our residents have been impacted by the rising costs of all goods making this drive particularly important for those in need across this region," said Supervisor Chair Tina Molé, "The generosity of the Senator and those that donate are greatly appreciated and a symbol of what makes this area such an amazing place to live."

"Thank you very much for doing this," said Kelly Short, Delaware Opportunities Food Bank Coordinator, "There are a lot of clients that come in everyday looking for jackets, coats and anything warm so this is great."