By Jessica Dillon
Henry County Supervisor Debra Buchanan has spent nearly three decades helping children stay warm through her annual “Coat Drive for Kids.”
Buchanan launched the program in 1996, followed by “Shoes for the Sole” in 2000. Together, the two initiatives provide coats and shoes to children — and, in some cases, adults — in need across the county.
Now celebrating its 30th year, the coat drive has distributed more than 10,000 coats since its start.
“We’ve been very fortunate over the years to have had a good response from the public, as well as businesses,” Buchanan said. “They’ve been willing to collect coats for me and participate in different ways.”
Buchanan began the drive on her own, driving around the area to pick up used coats, cleaning them herself, and even storing them in her home.
“When I started it 30 years ago, yes, I was driving all over the county and city picking up used coats from people. I was washing them at home or taking them to a cleaner,” she said.
“The best help someone can give is to provide a good used coat, or if they have a few extra dollars, buy a new one for a child,” Buchanan said. She added that hoodies are also welcome, as they are popular among high school students.
Buchanan encourages donations in all sizes. “If you have a coat that looks like an old folks’ coat that I’d wear, don’t hesitate to take it to the dry cleaners, because we can find a home for it,” she said. “There are plenty of people like you and me that are older, that maybe don’t wear the modern style, but still need a coat.”
Those wishing to donate new or gently used coats may call Buchanan at 276-358-1463. Donations can also be dropped off at Hollywood Cinema or One-Hour Martinizing on Rives Road. The coat donation deadline is November 28.
