The Almanac – South Hills Interfaith Movement has reshaped its winter coat program to ensure more children and adults are warm throughout the winter season, announcing a pilot partnership with Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania to better serve families in need.
“Each year, our generous community donates coats and winter apparel to keep our families warm during the cold winter months,” said Jim Guffey, SHIM executive director. “With the growing number of people we serve, last year we were unable to meet the needs of all of our families. Through this partnership, every SHIM family in need of coats will have them.”
Because youngsters grow quickly, SHIM did not have the right sizes to meet every child’s need last winter. An estimated 600 children served by SHIM are in need of coats this year.
Goodwill has 26 donated-goods retail stores in southwestern Pennsylvania, including six in the South Hills area. The partnership will allow SHIM families to shop at a convenient time and store location, and for the winter apparel they need most.
Meanwhile, SHIM’s Community Closet will remain open during its regular hours and continue to provide much-needed clothing support for SHIM families.
Through the pilot program, community members can donate coats and winter apparel to SHIM, which then will be sent to Goodwill. The organization will provide SHIM with credit, which will be used for Goodwill gift cards.
This year, every family that is registered for the SHIM food pantry will receive a gift card to shop at any Goodwill store in the area, allowing people to purchase coats, hats, boots and gloves of their choice in the best size and fit.
“We are committed to working alongside our community members and excited to have the opportunity to partner with SHIM,” Robert Stape, Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania chief operating officer, said. “When SHIM approached us about this idea, we were eager to get started.”
Donations can be dropped off through the end of December from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, and Thursdays and Fridays by appointment, at the SHIM Center, 5301 Park Ave, Bethel Park.
